tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42012413084856463022019-01-04T04:55:43.860-05:00Field Biology in Southeastern OhioDenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.comBlogger166125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-13144060902277693532015-02-14T17:28:00.000-05:002015-02-14T17:28:07.295-05:00Let's Go Climbing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lt1qG5Jr_To/VNu58BBahiI/AAAAAAAAMCg/gqKmCEL5WC4/s1600/matelea%2Bobliqua.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lt1qG5Jr_To/VNu58BBahiI/AAAAAAAAMCg/gqKmCEL5WC4/s1600/matelea%2Bobliqua.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div><b>Climbing Milkweed</b>, <i>Matelea obliqua</i>. There are countless wildflowers that are classified as vines, but you only have a limited time to observe them in bloom. Let's look at woody plants instead, and check them out in winter condition where the climbing mechanisms are not obscured by the leaves.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0QnbNQo9fSw/VNu7ogZwQZI/AAAAAAAAMCs/g2ID5KnaBcw/s1600/creeper%2Bpads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0QnbNQo9fSw/VNu7ogZwQZI/AAAAAAAAMCs/g2ID5KnaBcw/s1600/creeper%2Bpads.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Virginia Creeper</b>, <i>Parthenocissus quinquefolia</i>. The name is appropriate, as this vine creeps up tree trunks. Young plants attach to the bark by means of these round sucker pads. They adhere so strongly that if you pull them off, the bark often breaks away before the vine does. These <i>aerial rootlets</i> as they are often called, pop out about every second or third <i>node</i>, or where the bud and leaves occur.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7a0byHx0RSM/VN--7HoMXHI/AAAAAAAAME8/W5YLZ0jNOno/s1600/creeper%2Brootlets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7a0byHx0RSM/VN--7HoMXHI/AAAAAAAAME8/W5YLZ0jNOno/s1600/creeper%2Brootlets.jpg" height="400" width="233" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nTBt6hHCcmI/VNu9YpjaN4I/AAAAAAAAMC4/98NNaLgxfZw/s1600/old%2Bcreeper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nTBt6hHCcmI/VNu9YpjaN4I/AAAAAAAAMC4/98NNaLgxfZw/s1600/old%2Bcreeper.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>As Virginia Creeper ages, those sucker discs are replaced by very thick aerial rootlets that look like mop hairs or dreadlocks. If this is the only part of the plant you look at, you may mistake it for Poison Ivy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VsK6Pew5tJI/VNu9zybHaQI/AAAAAAAAMDA/nl_zMX5BYzM/s1600/va%2Bcreeper%2Bleaf%2Bscar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VsK6Pew5tJI/VNu9zybHaQI/AAAAAAAAMDA/nl_zMX5BYzM/s1600/va%2Bcreeper%2Bleaf%2Bscar.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Virginia Creeper buds are orange and <u>scaled</u>. The leaf scars are circular, and deeply impressed like craters. We should compare it to Poison Ivy which often grows along side it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jXxfMrszwQM/VNvArlNlXEI/AAAAAAAAMDM/_SgXVYDN1iU/s1600/P.Ivy%2Bbark.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jXxfMrszwQM/VNvArlNlXEI/AAAAAAAAMDM/_SgXVYDN1iU/s1600/P.Ivy%2Bbark.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Poison Ivy</b>, <i>Toxicodendron radicans</i>, sends out its aerial rootlets <u>throughout</u> the plant, both above and below, regardless of the age of the vine. The hairs are much thinner when compared to Va. Creeper.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7EGpH49dqAY/VNvBQkEK5GI/AAAAAAAAMDU/17et7PCuHaU/s1600/PI%2Bbuds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7EGpH49dqAY/VNvBQkEK5GI/AAAAAAAAMDU/17et7PCuHaU/s1600/PI%2Bbuds.jpg" height="335" width="400" /></a></div>When in doubt, go right to the new growth twigs. The leaf scars are <b>V</b> shaped and not deeply impressed in the twig. The buds are also orangish or peach colored, but fuzzy and soft scaled, or what we call <i>naked</i>. Virginia Creeper grows tight against the tree trunk, as if it was scared of heights. Poison Ivy will send its branches outward, as if it was wanting to reach out and touch you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KD3gTz2OOkY/VNvCjTYGGRI/AAAAAAAAMDg/aVvg3JfH_Yw/s1600/trumpet%2Bcreeper%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KD3gTz2OOkY/VNvCjTYGGRI/AAAAAAAAMDg/aVvg3JfH_Yw/s1600/trumpet%2Bcreeper%2B3.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>It's hard to mistake the beautiful flowers of the <b>Trumpet Creeper</b>, <i>Campsis radicans</i>, but what do you look for when the flowers and leaves have dropped?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TxCPu07-p8A/VNvDAkqEBPI/AAAAAAAAMDo/WipOGpycU1o/s1600/Campsis%2Brootlets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TxCPu07-p8A/VNvDAkqEBPI/AAAAAAAAMDo/WipOGpycU1o/s1600/Campsis%2Brootlets.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--8LEdSozELM/VNvDHv0DpXI/AAAAAAAAMDw/3al3LGeaMK4/s1600/Campsis%2Brootlets%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--8LEdSozELM/VNvDHv0DpXI/AAAAAAAAMDw/3al3LGeaMK4/s1600/Campsis%2Brootlets%2B2.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>The light brown twigs are easy to spot against a darker background. More important is the arrangement of the rootlets. On Trumpet Creeper they are all <u>concentrated</u> in small batches that pop out periodically like a scrub brush along the twig.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6fmRZP3PLSs/VNvEvu3BbrI/AAAAAAAAMD8/fTT660ek68g/s1600/grapevine%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6fmRZP3PLSs/VNvEvu3BbrI/AAAAAAAAMD8/fTT660ek68g/s1600/grapevine%2B2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Another group of climbing vines are the <b>Wild Grapes</b>, <i>Vitis</i>. The older bark on Grape becomes shreddy, and as kids we would swing on them in the woods, our so called Tarzan vines.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWv6tBwUYbw/VNvFg0rb7gI/AAAAAAAAMEE/ZHa3BNHNI5g/s1600/grape%2Btendril.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWv6tBwUYbw/VNvFg0rb7gI/AAAAAAAAMEE/ZHa3BNHNI5g/s1600/grape%2Btendril.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>Grapes start growing by sending out <i>tendrils</i>. Many types of tendrils are essentially modified leaves. The ends are curly and wrap around twigs like a bull whip. This gives the grape vine support as it climbs higher. Some tendrils tighten their curls and help pull a plant upward.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R-KTCbHRV7k/VNvGvNp-ffI/AAAAAAAAMEQ/WDJraC7X9lM/s1600/glauc%2Bbrier.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R-KTCbHRV7k/VNvGvNp-ffI/AAAAAAAAMEQ/WDJraC7X9lM/s1600/glauc%2Bbrier.JPG" height="360" width="400" /></a></div>Another group of plants with tendrils are the Greenbriers. These tendrils allow many of the species, including this <b>Glaucous Greenbrier</b>, <i>Smilax glauca</i>, to climb high into trees.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I7WuXxfoXzI/VNvHTgA0f_I/AAAAAAAAMEY/xJR2Ob4Ky-E/s1600/sawbrier.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I7WuXxfoXzI/VNvHTgA0f_I/AAAAAAAAMEY/xJR2Ob4Ky-E/s1600/sawbrier.JPG" height="361" width="400" /></a></div><b>Sawbrier</b>, <i>Smilax rotundifolia</i>, is less picky about where its tendrils land. They often attach to other Sawbriers, or even branches on the same plant. This results in shrub like thickets we often refer to as <u>brier patches</u>. (Sometimes briar is spelled with an <i>a).</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f5O1t0wGSgQ/VNvIX5VwkDI/AAAAAAAAMEk/os77vZBExCA/s1600/moonseed%2Bvine.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f5O1t0wGSgQ/VNvIX5VwkDI/AAAAAAAAMEk/os77vZBExCA/s1600/moonseed%2Bvine.JPG" height="400" width="361" /></a></div><b>Canada Moonseed</b>, <i>Menispermum canadense</i>. This dark vine looks like a skinny snake climbing a tree. They don't use aerial rootlets or tendrils. Their method of climbing is to simply wrap around a trunk.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4aiLvuU3Oxc/VNvJBUmeLNI/AAAAAAAAMEs/5QKHzWniY6w/s1600/moonseed%2Bscar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4aiLvuU3Oxc/VNvJBUmeLNI/AAAAAAAAMEs/5QKHzWniY6w/s1600/moonseed%2Bscar.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Up close Moonseed has round leaf scars like Virginia Creeper. What's different is that knife cut, a small slit or notch located at the top of the leaf scar.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Iq--SonL_Dk/VN_AhIoTbqI/AAAAAAAAMFI/_VgGTM6aBy4/s1600/jap%2Bhoneysuckle%2Bvines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Iq--SonL_Dk/VN_AhIoTbqI/AAAAAAAAMFI/_VgGTM6aBy4/s1600/jap%2Bhoneysuckle%2Bvines.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>Another climbing vine that wraps around plants, (including itself), is one of the top five worst invasive species in Ohio, the <b>Japanese Honeysuckle</b>, <i>Lonicera japonica</i>. When honeysuckles climb on themselves, they don't seem to damage each other.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-htmPs0Uzdds/VN_CL1meK7I/AAAAAAAAMFU/NZGFA_C6AO8/s1600/honeysuckle%2Bchoking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-htmPs0Uzdds/VN_CL1meK7I/AAAAAAAAMFU/NZGFA_C6AO8/s1600/honeysuckle%2Bchoking.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Once they fixate on a steady growing tree, they begin to choke the life out of it. Here you can see the vine squeezing so hard it has become imbedded into the bark.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-blaw0WjAzs4/VN_C5wyalbI/AAAAAAAAMFc/tmmlq3lyENs/s1600/honeysuckle%2Bdamage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-blaw0WjAzs4/VN_C5wyalbI/AAAAAAAAMFc/tmmlq3lyENs/s1600/honeysuckle%2Bdamage.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KfZ_5niQfHU/VN_DE8_Hn6I/AAAAAAAAMFk/LJtPZK4sJ1I/s1600/hoineysuckle%2Bdamage%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KfZ_5niQfHU/VN_DE8_Hn6I/AAAAAAAAMFk/LJtPZK4sJ1I/s1600/hoineysuckle%2Bdamage%2B2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>This results in the cambium layer being shut off, which can be fatal to small trees. You have probably seen people hiking with fancy curled walking sticks. Japanese Honeysuckle is one of the species responsible for those designs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-saCSgjIHJ0c/VN_ED3dKXVI/AAAAAAAAMFs/6Gj9eF3DoW8/s1600/bittersweet%2Bvine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-saCSgjIHJ0c/VN_ED3dKXVI/AAAAAAAAMFs/6Gj9eF3DoW8/s1600/bittersweet%2Bvine.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>There has been another choking vine in our woods long before honeysuckle was a problem. Many of those walking sticks I mentioned were a result of this sprawling vine, <b>American Bittersweet</b>, <i>Celastrus scandens</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ofbHBcy0bZc/VN_E72O3VwI/AAAAAAAAMF0/LmneQN3xOR0/s1600/bittersweet%2Bbuds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ofbHBcy0bZc/VN_E72O3VwI/AAAAAAAAMF0/LmneQN3xOR0/s1600/bittersweet%2Bbuds.jpg" height="400" width="278" /></a></div>In the winter, Bittersweet can be recognized by the buds. Like creeper and ivy, they too are colored orange. These are very small and pointy, as if the twig had goosebumps.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o7VPGMUI_lE/VN_FvTUTp7I/AAAAAAAAMF8/NcImymFMDo0/s1600/bittersweet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o7VPGMUI_lE/VN_FvTUTp7I/AAAAAAAAMF8/NcImymFMDo0/s1600/bittersweet.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>Nature has its checks and balances. As a native species, Bittersweet has limiting factors which prevent it from becoming too abundant, and therefor is not a threat to overall forest growth. Our real concern should be with&nbsp;<b>Oriental Bittersweet</b>, <i>Celastrus orbiculatus</i>. Yes, you guessed it, another exotic invasive. Our native species produces these orange capsules at the ends of the branches, while Oriental produces fruit ALL OVER the entire plant. American has broadly egg shaped leaves, while Oriental has round leaves.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0-lcelRXiFo/VN_IS9QDpBI/AAAAAAAAMGI/VUeJ26NBNLA/s1600/tangled%2Bvines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0-lcelRXiFo/VN_IS9QDpBI/AAAAAAAAMGI/VUeJ26NBNLA/s1600/tangled%2Bvines.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Ah, the tangled webs we weave. Here a Raspberry tries to wiggle through a nearly impenetrable thicket of Grape, Virginia Creeper, Honeysuckle, and Bittersweet.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-70134403829317864822015-01-18T13:17:00.000-05:002015-01-18T13:42:07.891-05:00Pines of Ohio<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-di9ILTS7mwA/VJili6Npu_I/AAAAAAAALmI/GkmccL6Kkls/s1600/Pinus%2Bechinata%2Bbark%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-di9ILTS7mwA/VJili6Npu_I/AAAAAAAALmI/GkmccL6Kkls/s1600/Pinus%2Bechinata%2Bbark%2B2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ilbkHMoAZhk/VKxZUD4dHeI/AAAAAAAAMBc/nin8514wYLI/s1600/cone%2C%2Baustrian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ilbkHMoAZhk/VKxZUD4dHeI/AAAAAAAAMBc/nin8514wYLI/s1600/cone%2C%2Baustrian.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Being Ohio is in the Eastern Deciduous Forest, we don't have large amounts of natural pine stands like you see west, south, and north of us. Members of the pine family are Conifers or cone producers. Just because it has a cone doesn't make it a pine, as we'll see in a minute. Let's take a quick look at some of the other non-pines found in the Pinaceae family.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hgInLI0mXMo/VJinD4W2lXI/AAAAAAAALmU/aWfXVCWjGN4/s1600/hemlock%2Bfruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hgInLI0mXMo/VJinD4W2lXI/AAAAAAAALmU/aWfXVCWjGN4/s1600/hemlock%2Bfruit.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Eastern, Western, and Carolina <b>Hemlock </b>(<i>Tsuga</i>) have short flat needles that tend to grow on one side or the other of the twig. The leaves or needles are green on top and white striped below. The cones are small, no more than an inch.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IZk4d5vXBrA/VJinl7imzEI/AAAAAAAALmc/PggE89PyAi0/s1600/larch%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IZk4d5vXBrA/VJinl7imzEI/AAAAAAAALmc/PggE89PyAi0/s1600/larch%2B2.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Larch</b> or <b>Tamarack</b> (<i>Larix</i>). In Ohio there is a native species, as well as planted European and Japanese types. This is one of the few conifers that is NOT evergreen. The flat leaves grow out in pinwheel circles or whorls. They turn orange in the fall, drop to the ground, and leave the tree looking bare. Native Larch can be found growing in bogs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VTLWfXuWYbY/VJipMn9zyuI/AAAAAAAALmo/_Na6-7bEHC8/s1600/doug%2Bfir.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VTLWfXuWYbY/VJipMn9zyuI/AAAAAAAALmo/_Na6-7bEHC8/s1600/doug%2Bfir.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-00MIBAaSTz0/VJipRYeMY5I/AAAAAAAALmw/yiY4yfL7i2g/s1600/doug%2Bfir%2Bcones.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-00MIBAaSTz0/VJipRYeMY5I/AAAAAAAALmw/yiY4yfL7i2g/s1600/doug%2Bfir%2Bcones.JPG" height="328" width="400" /></a></div><b>Douglas-Fir</b>, <i>Pseudotsuga menziesii</i>. This is a western U.S. species. Like the previous two, they also have flat needles, but grow <u>spirally</u> around the entire twig. The best way to identify it is by the three-pronged bracts that stick out between the cone scales. They resemble a mouse running back into his hole. Doug-Fir is hyphenated because the cone looks a bit like some of the true firs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgsGw7Dy068/VJiq8DHbZJI/AAAAAAAALm8/esn3W_uobME/s1600/white%2Bspruce.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgsGw7Dy068/VJiq8DHbZJI/AAAAAAAALm8/esn3W_uobME/s1600/white%2Bspruce.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHPSentzehA/VJirFAZ_mSI/AAAAAAAALnE/KM5hCjDJ5jk/s1600/Spruce%2C%2BBlue%2Bneedles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHPSentzehA/VJirFAZ_mSI/AAAAAAAALnE/KM5hCjDJ5jk/s1600/Spruce%2C%2BBlue%2Bneedles.jpg" height="243" width="400" /></a></div><b>White</b> and <b>Blue Spruce</b>, (<i>Picea</i>). Black and Red Spruce also occur in Eastern North America, but none of these species are native in Ohio. Norway Spruce is the most commonly planted. Spruce cones are more elongated and sausage like. Their needles also spiral around the twig, but upon feeling them they are sharply angled or <u>square</u>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U2Du7mF9erI/VJispjIGchI/AAAAAAAALnQ/XPn1SsdAr_k/s1600/white%2Bfir%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U2Du7mF9erI/VJispjIGchI/AAAAAAAALnQ/XPn1SsdAr_k/s1600/white%2Bfir%2B2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ADKda53g_z8/VJis2JDjKiI/AAAAAAAALng/3kSvmaT9GZQ/s1600/white%2Bfir%2Btwig%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ADKda53g_z8/VJis2JDjKiI/AAAAAAAALng/3kSvmaT9GZQ/s1600/white%2Bfir%2Btwig%2B2.jpg" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>The <b>True Firs</b>, (<i>Abies)</i>. There may be a few remnant populations of <b>Balsam Fir </b>in N.E. Ohio, but it is primarily a species found just north of us. The pictures are of <b>White Fir</b>, common in the Rockies. Fir trees have long flat needles. What makes them unique are the <u>sucker discs</u> at the bottom of each needle. Those circular pads even leave marks behind on bare twigs. The other thing that differentiates a fir tree is that instead of their cones hanging down, they grow UPRIGHT on top of the branches. Besides the two mentioned, there are at least another half dozen species along the Pacific coast.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HbkFHSXPtWM/VJiwDxbJUbI/AAAAAAAALns/dKiy__qBzPY/s1600/red%2Bcedar%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HbkFHSXPtWM/VJiwDxbJUbI/AAAAAAAALns/dKiy__qBzPY/s1600/red%2Bcedar%2B2.JPG" height="260" width="400" /></a></div>Red Cedar, Juniper, White Cedar/Arbor Vitae, Cypress, Yew, Redwood, Sequoia, and Ginkgo are all related Gymnosperms, but belong to different families.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T8dKMFu7RUE/VJiwy4ZUtsI/AAAAAAAALn0/iyKnRrlo5wc/s1600/pine%2Bneedles.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T8dKMFu7RUE/VJiwy4ZUtsI/AAAAAAAALn0/iyKnRrlo5wc/s1600/pine%2Bneedles.JPG" height="373" width="400" /></a></div>On to the pines. As you have just seen, a pine is not a pine just because it produces a cone. A pine tree (<i>Pinus</i>), is such because the needles are held together in bundles, clusters, or <i>fascicles</i>. Soft pines have needles in fives, the hard pines are in clusters of two or three.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iMjXdMwy_Iw/VJiy7WYy4WI/AAAAAAAALoA/HU8AOvFQIrw/s1600/white%2Bpine%2Bneedles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iMjXdMwy_Iw/VJiy7WYy4WI/AAAAAAAALoA/HU8AOvFQIrw/s1600/white%2Bpine%2Bneedles.jpg" height="400" width="391" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oh1y0nvlPEU/VJizFVpTUcI/AAAAAAAALoI/48UUFwPslZI/s1600/white%2Bpine%2Bneedles%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oh1y0nvlPEU/VJizFVpTUcI/AAAAAAAALoI/48UUFwPslZI/s1600/white%2Bpine%2Bneedles%2B2.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div><b>White Pine</b>, <i>Pinus strobus</i>. Perhaps the most commonly planted species in the state, or at least the most familiar. White Pine is native, especially in northern Ohio. It is our <u>only</u> <b>five</b> needled species found in the state. The needles are medium in length, and are soft to the touch. All of our other pines are rigid or stiff feeling.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BTxSSItALr8/VJiz4SSrJHI/AAAAAAAALoQ/ZQIO6UZrlV8/s1600/Pinus%2Bstrobus%2Bbark%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BTxSSItALr8/VJiz4SSrJHI/AAAAAAAALoQ/ZQIO6UZrlV8/s1600/Pinus%2Bstrobus%2Bbark%2B2.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>The bark on young White Pine is smooth and solid black, something you won't see on any of our other pines.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ZV5x4gJogs/VJi0YsgFEYI/AAAAAAAALoY/g37dazXrOAw/s1600/white%2Bpine%2Bold%2Bbark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ZV5x4gJogs/VJi0YsgFEYI/AAAAAAAALoY/g37dazXrOAw/s1600/white%2Bpine%2Bold%2Bbark.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>As White Pine gets old, the bark will crack and form narrow fissures. This is still unique, as all the other pines will have a squarish or platy look. It can be brownish like this, or retain its blackish color.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kE8-ZSTfWRg/VJi0uVxm7NI/AAAAAAAALog/ucIvSJbGg9c/s1600/Pine%2C%2Bwhite%2Bcones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kE8-ZSTfWRg/VJi0uVxm7NI/AAAAAAAALog/ucIvSJbGg9c/s1600/Pine%2C%2Bwhite%2Bcones.jpg" height="365" width="400" /></a></div>White Pine, like other soft pines, have elongated cones rather than the short fatter cones one is used to seeing. There is often white <i>pitch</i> on the cone scales.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xEEcQvnAqdY/VJi1vFAtGjI/AAAAAAAALoo/S52VgKD7Fa0/s1600/white%2Bpine%2Bwhorls%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xEEcQvnAqdY/VJi1vFAtGjI/AAAAAAAALoo/S52VgKD7Fa0/s1600/white%2Bpine%2Bwhorls%2B2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>All pines tend to send their new growth branches out at the same spot. White Pine, more than other species, tend to have almost perfect whorls, and yes you can age the tree by counting the whorls.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LRlTl9OTajM/VJi2MVsvnAI/AAAAAAAALow/ogRUm2VqH3U/s1600/white%2Bpine%2Bwhorls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LRlTl9OTajM/VJi2MVsvnAI/AAAAAAAALow/ogRUm2VqH3U/s1600/white%2Bpine%2Bwhorls.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>White Pine is often planted as a good natural wind break. In Michigan there are a few virgin stands still left whose trees have a 6-7 foot diameter. Some pines are important timber species and are often raised in solid stands. Some are good for lumber, and they grow very fast. The vast majority have very porous wood, making them best used as pulpwood, otherwise known as paper making. The pitch or sap is used in tar and turpentine. Ever notice when you burn pine it pops a lot? Those compounds are used to make gunpowder. Most telephone poles are a type of pine.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pLiTQm_ggQc/VJi39ToHEvI/AAAAAAAALo8/--r5lGJLDYY/s1600/va%2Bpine%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pLiTQm_ggQc/VJi39ToHEvI/AAAAAAAALo8/--r5lGJLDYY/s1600/va%2Bpine%2B2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Another native species is <b>Virginia Pine</b>, <i>Pinus virginiana</i>. Compared to White Pine, Virginia has short needles held together in fascicles of two. Also notice the needles are twisted, not around each other, each individual needle twists. They are often a paler green than other species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_djuOLG4J_U/VJi5BDYOFiI/AAAAAAAALpE/fnt0Oyuirv0/s1600/pine%2Bcone.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_djuOLG4J_U/VJi5BDYOFiI/AAAAAAAALpE/fnt0Oyuirv0/s1600/pine%2Bcone.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>All pine cones have bumps on each scale. With Virginia, they are heavily armed, having very sharp pointed tips, more so than other species. Virginia cones tend to stay on the trees for long periods of time, so the tree may be often packed with them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TzadMPBGKKI/VJi5vgYVODI/AAAAAAAALpM/gD7bKJYVkHQ/s1600/Pinus%2Bvirginiana%2Bbark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TzadMPBGKKI/VJi5vgYVODI/AAAAAAAALpM/gD7bKJYVkHQ/s1600/Pinus%2Bvirginiana%2Bbark.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4TrwcOFj7Bw/VJi55CmfDCI/AAAAAAAALpU/e5pgesDTUa4/s1600/virginia%2Bbark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4TrwcOFj7Bw/VJi55CmfDCI/AAAAAAAALpU/e5pgesDTUa4/s1600/virginia%2Bbark.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>The bark is platy like other hard pines, but the more you look at it, the more it seems sickly. The brownish-orange plates are smaller than other species, and it often looks like they start to peel or shag away from the trunk. Further up the tree, they actually do flake off, even on the live branches.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SEvH1sCC5KQ/VJi7mdfdeLI/AAAAAAAALpg/x6V7MnbBV-4/s1600/va%2Bpine%2Bsilhoutte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SEvH1sCC5KQ/VJi7mdfdeLI/AAAAAAAALpg/x6V7MnbBV-4/s1600/va%2Bpine%2Bsilhoutte.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6cBwQZb_3GQ/VJi7wDNiBNI/AAAAAAAALpo/gZ3mNtZafk4/s1600/virginia%2Bpine%2Bbranches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6cBwQZb_3GQ/VJi7wDNiBNI/AAAAAAAALpo/gZ3mNtZafk4/s1600/virginia%2Bpine%2Bbranches.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>Another common characteristic is that this tree has a problem with self pruning. It frequently retains its dead branches, which adds a lot of knots to the wood. Because of this, I often call it the "Scarlet Oak" of pines. With its short, often pale needles, combined with the peeling bark and the retention of dead branches, it has the appearance of looking unhealthy. An old name for it was Scrub Pine.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-InrdZmqW4gY/VJjbhXHGO2I/AAAAAAAALp4/qFBZhcEHCKM/s1600/pitch%2Bpine%2Bneedles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-InrdZmqW4gY/VJjbhXHGO2I/AAAAAAAALp4/qFBZhcEHCKM/s1600/pitch%2Bpine%2Bneedles.jpg" height="321" width="400" /></a></div>A third native species is <b>Pitch Pine</b>, <i>Pinus rigida.</i>&nbsp;This is a <b>three</b> needled pine whose needles are twisted and of medium length, 3-5 inches. Considering the ground was completely covered in Lycopodium, it's no wonder I couldn't find any green needles.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ncpMGiIYDsI/VJjdJdINGFI/AAAAAAAALqE/h_-qp-dcQpo/s1600/Pinus%2Brigida.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ncpMGiIYDsI/VJjdJdINGFI/AAAAAAAALqE/h_-qp-dcQpo/s1600/Pinus%2Brigida.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hz3PItnYyV4/VJjdRStROeI/AAAAAAAALqM/0Ek0YbRjr-E/s1600/Pinus%2Brigida%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hz3PItnYyV4/VJjdRStROeI/AAAAAAAALqM/0Ek0YbRjr-E/s1600/Pinus%2Brigida%2B2.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>Pitch Pine is a dark barked tree. The plates almost have a Wild Cherry look to them. The bark on very large and old specimens can turn orange. Pitch is a fire adapted species that may show new needles sprouting around the base after a burn. Pitch, along with Virginia, are common on dry ridge tops, and can form solid stands in such environments.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sIc8DvWXFA/VJje82vvDwI/AAAAAAAALqY/0uqs8RtlvdU/s1600/Pine%2C%2BScotch%2Bhalf%2Bn%2Bhalf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sIc8DvWXFA/VJje82vvDwI/AAAAAAAALqY/0uqs8RtlvdU/s1600/Pine%2C%2BScotch%2Bhalf%2Bn%2Bhalf.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><b>Scotch Pine,</b> <i>Pinus sylvestris</i>. There are a number of non-native species planted around the state. Scotch is one of the most popular. It's hard to believe this drab looking tree is the most common pine used as a Christmas tree, but this is what you see for sale around the holidays. They look quite nice when small, but their appearance changes with age. The bark has a typical brown plated look in the lower part, but notice how it changes as you go up.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-im2m39GZeLA/VJjgxC37TgI/AAAAAAAALqk/ZTxjxJzDCUc/s1600/Pine%2C%2BScotch%2Bupper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-im2m39GZeLA/VJjgxC37TgI/AAAAAAAALqk/ZTxjxJzDCUc/s1600/Pine%2C%2BScotch%2Bupper.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>The <u>upper half </u>of the trunk begins to peel and show an inner bright orange bark. You can see this from a long distance away.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6uBvOjNKMg8/VKxV_YHJ7ZI/AAAAAAAAMBI/K_r-BpBMS0Y/s1600/scotch%2Bneedles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6uBvOjNKMg8/VKxV_YHJ7ZI/AAAAAAAAMBI/K_r-BpBMS0Y/s1600/scotch%2Bneedles.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The needles on Scotch are short and in twos. They are usually straight, but some varieties may show a slight twisting. At first, that description matches Virginia, but the bark is different.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WWu4SgRgMUQ/VKxYj7HmnOI/AAAAAAAAMBU/GNhGW3T1ivQ/s1600/scotch%2Bcones%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WWu4SgRgMUQ/VKxYj7HmnOI/AAAAAAAAMBU/GNhGW3T1ivQ/s1600/scotch%2Bcones%2B.jpg" height="326" width="400" /></a></div>The cones are small, also similar to Virginia, but lack the sharp scale tips of that species. The scales are raised into a point, but with blunt tips.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_64RMV5aGzc/VJjjM_R3h7I/AAAAAAAALq4/6sD0vQ-zV8g/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bbark%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_64RMV5aGzc/VJjjM_R3h7I/AAAAAAAALq4/6sD0vQ-zV8g/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bbark%2B3.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><b>Red Pine</b>, <i>Pinus resinosa</i>. This species is native to the Northern Hardwoods Forest. That includes the Great Lakes region and the New England states, but not Ohio. The easiest way to recognize this species is the bark. Look for a red-orange color from <u>top to bottom</u>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--7UNoLD8VZw/VJjlNuXdMoI/AAAAAAAALrE/bR2kqu4-IAE/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bbark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--7UNoLD8VZw/VJjlNuXdMoI/AAAAAAAALrE/bR2kqu4-IAE/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bbark.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>Some people are red-green color blind, and can not see that feature of the trunk. Try feeling for the texture. Rub the bark, and it falls off in very thin plates, like layered paper or pieces of the mineral Mica.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t9dTeKgm2Ds/VJjm4fsWL9I/AAAAAAAALrQ/d6DTb1T9yIc/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bneedles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t9dTeKgm2Ds/VJjm4fsWL9I/AAAAAAAALrQ/d6DTb1T9yIc/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bneedles.jpg" height="341" width="400" /></a></div>Red Pine has needles in twos. They are straight and considered long, 5-6 inches.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4pY6j6xAcA/VJjnbz-zOHI/AAAAAAAALrY/P5LvHcT_NYI/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bbroken%2Bneedles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4pY6j6xAcA/VJjnbz-zOHI/AAAAAAAALrY/P5LvHcT_NYI/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bbroken%2Bneedles.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The needles are fragile, and when bent, easily snap in half like raw spaghetti.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cTtbqDnDVfQ/VJjoOF0YlkI/AAAAAAAALrk/Fw5e3_LbNG4/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bbud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cTtbqDnDVfQ/VJjoOF0YlkI/AAAAAAAALrk/Fw5e3_LbNG4/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bbud.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>I usually don't use buds to identify pines, mostly because they look alike, or you simply don't need them. Red Pine is different in having a single large, reddish orange bud, that the needles tend to whorl around.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03Avs9mUC_s/VJjo7N37jSI/AAAAAAAALrs/9n0lLAcspeY/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bporcupine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03Avs9mUC_s/VJjo7N37jSI/AAAAAAAALrs/9n0lLAcspeY/s1600/red%2Bpine%2Bporcupine.jpg" height="297" width="400" /></a></div>Because the needles tend to bundle around that large terminal bud, I can look up and see what appear to be a bunch of baby porcupines or Koosh Balls at the end of the branches. I think I'm the only one that ever uses that character, but when Red is planted with other species, the needle length, and that "clustered at the end of the branches" appearance helps.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CBRSOzhFZLI/VKxalzLn3jI/AAAAAAAAMBo/ORCZ5DmLZSg/s1600/austrian%2Bneedles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CBRSOzhFZLI/VKxalzLn3jI/AAAAAAAAMBo/ORCZ5DmLZSg/s1600/austrian%2Bneedles.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Another frequently planted species from Europe is <b>Austrian Pine</b>, sometimes called <b>Black Pine</b>, <i>Pinus</i> <i>nigra</i>. Like Red Pine, it also has long straight needles in bundles of two. The needle tips are much sharper than other pines.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cqeg2RfzN8E/VKxbYvONftI/AAAAAAAAMBw/M9wYL6pHCp8/s1600/autrian%2Bneedles%2Bbent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cqeg2RfzN8E/VKxbYvONftI/AAAAAAAAMBw/M9wYL6pHCp8/s1600/autrian%2Bneedles%2Bbent.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Unlike Red, when you try to break the needles, they simply bend, or even spring back into place. They have much stronger tissues than Red.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ALH-1PtcJXk/VLv3mThDycI/AAAAAAAAMCI/DB1A3rHExtY/s1600/austrian%2Bbud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ALH-1PtcJXk/VLv3mThDycI/AAAAAAAAMCI/DB1A3rHExtY/s1600/austrian%2Bbud.jpg" height="311" width="400" /></a></div>Also like Red, there is a large single terminal bud. The orangish scales on this species are covered with a white or silver look.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mrvsYH73xlU/VLv4Oc_JvsI/AAAAAAAAMCQ/LH3R6hE60ow/s1600/austrian%2Bbark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mrvsYH73xlU/VLv4Oc_JvsI/AAAAAAAAMCQ/LH3R6hE60ow/s1600/austrian%2Bbark.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>If you think the buds and needles look too similar between Austrian and Red, just check out the bark. It has gray colored plates.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wIK8PmMyB4Q/VJjq9vARo7I/AAAAAAAALsA/s4ldqq9DDyQ/s1600/shortleaf%2Bneedles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wIK8PmMyB4Q/VJjq9vARo7I/AAAAAAAALsA/s4ldqq9DDyQ/s1600/shortleaf%2Bneedles.jpg" height="400" width="330" /></a></div><b>Shortleaf Pine</b>, <i>Pinus echinata</i>. This is a species from the southern states, though there are a few locations in southern Ohio where it is considered native. Shortleaf is one I find difficult to identify. The needles are in BOTH twos and threes, therefor I need to look at other characters. The needles are medium in length. It's called Shortleaf because in the south most other species have much longer needles.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DAbeH_NUD_4/VJjs4JzrjfI/AAAAAAAALsM/4fSXyj8zF1Q/s1600/Pinus%2Bechinata%2Bbark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DAbeH_NUD_4/VJjs4JzrjfI/AAAAAAAALsM/4fSXyj8zF1Q/s1600/Pinus%2Bechinata%2Bbark.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>The bark of Shortleaf is brown, and on some trees the plates often appear to be arranged in rows. I personally like to describe it as alligator bark. Shortleaf is one of several species referred to as southern yellow pine.&nbsp;You can find a number of introduced species on our state forests. Sometimes there will be Jack Pines from Michigan&nbsp;<i>P. banksiana</i>, or Loblolly Pine from the south,&nbsp;<i>P. taeda</i>. I am only illustrating those which I've seen to be more common.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FrSqvALboOc/VJjtc1yYS-I/AAAAAAAALsU/P5GKKLT3G90/s1600/shortleaf%2Bresin%2Bdots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FrSqvALboOc/VJjtc1yYS-I/AAAAAAAALsU/P5GKKLT3G90/s1600/shortleaf%2Bresin%2Bdots.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QOiMBrmseAM/VJjtt4G_kcI/AAAAAAAALsc/Zah3UiFy_7Y/s1600/shortleaf%2Bresin%2Bdots%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QOiMBrmseAM/VJjtt4G_kcI/AAAAAAAALsc/Zah3UiFy_7Y/s1600/shortleaf%2Bresin%2Bdots%2B2.jpg" height="377" width="400" /></a></div>A closeup look at the bark shows an important character, various round circles known as resin dots on the <u>outside</u> of the tree. You can see where the pitch has leaked out on some of them. All pines have resin canals inside. When beetles and other insects chew through the bark, the sap is exuded as a defense mechanism.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RX9A20E5zRI/VJjwom51tmI/AAAAAAAALso/IFo57fzhs60/s1600/shortleaf%2Bcone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RX9A20E5zRI/VJjwom51tmI/AAAAAAAALso/IFo57fzhs60/s1600/shortleaf%2Bcone.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Shortleaf cones are egg shaped, and have large round plates. When young they are covered in sharp prickles, but I tend to see those disappear with age.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l6AvGKdEDlU/VJjxGfrSRXI/AAAAAAAALsw/TLnBr7tM0AY/s1600/shortleaf%2Bnew%2Bgrowth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l6AvGKdEDlU/VJjxGfrSRXI/AAAAAAAALsw/TLnBr7tM0AY/s1600/shortleaf%2Bnew%2Bgrowth.jpg" height="270" width="400" /></a></div>It is said that unlike the older branches, the new growth twigs are covered in a white or glaucous coating. This is true, but it's not unique to just this species. When identifying Shortleaf, or any other pine, it's a good idea to use a combination of characters.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-36659772121946765162015-01-02T13:01:00.000-05:002015-02-18T19:37:15.597-05:00Prominent Moths of Ohio<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P69NCZDqcr8/VI3LpeYqcdI/AAAAAAAALZ8/O5ey3Epn6RY/s1600/Heterocampa%2Bguttivata.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJX0WS3kHss/VJheiMGW0II/AAAAAAAALjQ/zugzVf0ZfEk/s1600/lochmaeus%2Bmanteo%2Bprominent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJX0WS3kHss/VJheiMGW0II/AAAAAAAALjQ/zugzVf0ZfEk/s1600/lochmaeus%2Bmanteo%2Bprominent.jpg" height="327" width="400" /></a></div>Prominent Moths belong to the family Notodontidae. They look very much like, and are distantly related to the Owlet Moths (Noctuidae). The difference between the families has to do with how the wing veins branch off, something you can't see in the field anyway. I have posted on several families before, but these are all drab and dull colored, so commenting on how to tell them apart is going to be difficult. Many have tufts of hair on their legs and along the wing margins. They tend to hold their wings roof like or tent shaped over their bodies, raised higher than most Noctuids.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pp2gkff5fR8/VI3M4w2qr-I/AAAAAAAALaI/CzZFuxKfpHg/s1600/datana%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pp2gkff5fR8/VI3M4w2qr-I/AAAAAAAALaI/CzZFuxKfpHg/s1600/datana%2B2.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>Many species actually fold their wings around the body and look like dead leaves or twigs. Here is an example of a Datana moth, which appears to have its head missing. All of our species are nocturnal, and the vast majority do not feed as adults. Their bodies are stout, and fatter than most Noctuids. Many have wings that are longer and skinnier than our Owlet moths.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4mg_lh__zlY/VI3OFEEf7zI/AAAAAAAALaQ/PIaYqYJOgFQ/s1600/Schizura%2Bipomoeae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4mg_lh__zlY/VI3OFEEf7zI/AAAAAAAALaQ/PIaYqYJOgFQ/s1600/Schizura%2Bipomoeae.jpg" height="260" width="400" /></a></div>The array of shapes and colors in the larvae is varied in this family, but I chose one to represent a number of the species. Many of the caterpillars have irregular shaped bodies, and mixed color patterns that contribute to their camouflage. I present the 53 species known from Ohio in two separate posts.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AQDu1BLJVLI/VI3PZ0eTU3I/AAAAAAAALaY/Xe0FvOIUdLw/s1600/JV8022-Hyparpax%2Baurora.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AQDu1BLJVLI/VI3PZ0eTU3I/AAAAAAAALaY/Xe0FvOIUdLw/s1600/JV8022-Hyparpax%2Baurora.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Pink Prominent</b>, <i>Hyparpax aurora</i>. Since almost everything in this family is a mixture of dull green, gray, or brown, I thought I would start with one of the showy species. It is lined in pink, with yellow in the center of the wing. The only possible species one could confuse this with is the Rosy Maple Moth. In that species the pink and yellow pattern is more solid. Rosy Maple lacks that thin pink line in the forewing, and also does not have a pink tipped abdomen or thorax.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jBXtg_OeURU/VI3RL6_5kqI/AAAAAAAALak/WPQ8oYTXOSw/s1600/map_oh_8022.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jBXtg_OeURU/VI3RL6_5kqI/AAAAAAAALak/WPQ8oYTXOSw/s1600/map_oh_8022.png" /></a></div>I want to thank Bob Patterson from the MPG site for creating a special link that allows me to use his maps. In the past I have made my own the old school way, pressing stick-on dots to a piece of paper. Time to join the 21st century. &nbsp;# 8022. The maps follow the species discussed just above. As in previous posts, these numbers are from the Hodges checklist of North American Lepidoptera. I may also have mentioned in the past that I am in no way competing with the Moth Photographers Group. They show species continent wide. I simply narrow my posts to just those in Ohio.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uZ3Jiw1u8oY/VI3W551sx0I/AAAAAAAALa0/V-9Kzouh8ts/s1600/JV7929-Nerice%2Bbidentata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uZ3Jiw1u8oY/VI3W551sx0I/AAAAAAAALa0/V-9Kzouh8ts/s1600/JV7929-Nerice%2Bbidentata.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Double-toothed Prominent</b>, <i>Nerice bidentata</i>. Upper half of the forewing brown and bordered by a black line. A number of black teeth bleed into the gray portion of the wing. As in the past, all pinned photos courtesy of <b>Jim Vargo</b>, and used by permission.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YWdemO8NU1Q/VKB7Bo6S8RI/AAAAAAAAL3c/Mb8FqP1FFUU/s1600/7929%2BProminent%2BDouble-toothed%2BNerice%2Bbidentata%2B5-03-13%2Bpg273Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks%2Bside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YWdemO8NU1Q/VKB7Bo6S8RI/AAAAAAAAL3c/Mb8FqP1FFUU/s1600/7929%2BProminent%2BDouble-toothed%2BNerice%2Bbidentata%2B5-03-13%2Bpg273Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks%2Bside.jpg" height="338" width="400" /></a></div>Pinned specimens are important to entomologists and for scientific purposes. Non-collectors are active in moth photography, and these are the views they use for identification. Many are easily recognized in the field, others are not. To make this post appealing to everyone, I have turned to one of my neighbors for assistance. Some of you will remember&nbsp;<b>Diane Brooks</b>&nbsp;for hosting a wonderful evening at her house during the Bur Oak Mothapalooza. The uncredited live shots are mine, but since I have so few, I am happy to share many of her photos with you. Most are new Perry County records not yet depicted on the range maps.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qjc4nk9eLzI/VI3YC83J_dI/AAAAAAAALa8/hqz7nvX8fOc/s1600/map_oh_7929.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qjc4nk9eLzI/VI3YC83J_dI/AAAAAAAALa8/hqz7nvX8fOc/s1600/map_oh_7929.png" /></a></div>#7929<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qp36gdnFV4A/VI3ZJGsf--I/AAAAAAAALbE/frhTkMoVaA4/s1600/JV7895-Clostera%2Balbosigma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qp36gdnFV4A/VI3ZJGsf--I/AAAAAAAALbE/frhTkMoVaA4/s1600/JV7895-Clostera%2Balbosigma.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Sigmoid Prominent</b>, <i>Clostera albosigma</i>. Forewing light colored with a series of faded white lines. The key character is the orange and brown spots at the top of the wing, bordered by a white S. The caterpillars are sometimes known as the White-marked Tentmaker.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-13PoIFO7jYo/VJ8Jg6XmKII/AAAAAAAALyk/5fLZELcEqh0/s1600/7895%2BProminent%2BSigmoid%2B7895%2BClostera%2Balbosigma%2B4-17-14%2Bpg%2B271%2BEXC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-13PoIFO7jYo/VJ8Jg6XmKII/AAAAAAAALyk/5fLZELcEqh0/s1600/7895%2BProminent%2BSigmoid%2B7895%2BClostera%2Balbosigma%2B4-17-14%2Bpg%2B271%2BEXC.jpg" height="317" width="400" /></a></div>Diane Brooks photo.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eefRtCYcPPc/VI3cF8gzU6I/AAAAAAAALbQ/OioYnRtfvwI/s1600/map_oh_7895.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eefRtCYcPPc/VI3cF8gzU6I/AAAAAAAALbQ/OioYnRtfvwI/s1600/map_oh_7895.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7895<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YCkFP-JBSKo/VI3cWubUxVI/AAAAAAAALbY/BtYjx0gl6Hk/s1600/JV7896-Clostera%2Binclusa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YCkFP-JBSKo/VI3cWubUxVI/AAAAAAAALbY/BtYjx0gl6Hk/s1600/JV7896-Clostera%2Binclusa.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Angle-lined Prominent</b>, <i>Clostera inclusa</i>. Similar to the above species, but the orange spot is thinner and a bit more faded. Look for the two white lines forming a V shape.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EseBA5JOlhY/VKB9XwITzFI/AAAAAAAAL3o/LtL_kFjr8BY/s1600/7896%2BProminent%2Bangle-lined%2BClostera%2Binclusa%2B5-09-14%2Bpg271Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EseBA5JOlhY/VKB9XwITzFI/AAAAAAAAL3o/LtL_kFjr8BY/s1600/7896%2BProminent%2Bangle-lined%2BClostera%2Binclusa%2B5-09-14%2Bpg271Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="276" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CZy2dSsFpwg/VKED6EiGRJI/AAAAAAAAL7M/_CJtYpB9Sik/s1600/7896%2BProminent%2BAngle-lined%2BCAT%2BPoplar%2BTentmaker%2BClostera%2Binclusa%2B6-21-14%2Bpg271Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks%2Bw%2Btent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CZy2dSsFpwg/VKED6EiGRJI/AAAAAAAAL7M/_CJtYpB9Sik/s1600/7896%2BProminent%2BAngle-lined%2BCAT%2BPoplar%2BTentmaker%2BClostera%2Binclusa%2B6-21-14%2Bpg271Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks%2Bw%2Btent.jpg" height="321" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WUEWKi-G-sg/VKbOsf4CWQI/AAAAAAAAL-A/dsMnCTge1_g/s1600/7896%2BProminent%2BAngle-lined%2BCATClostera%2Binclusa%2BPoplar%2BTentmaker%2Bin%2Btent%2B%2B9-06-09%2Bpg271Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WUEWKi-G-sg/VKbOsf4CWQI/AAAAAAAAL-A/dsMnCTge1_g/s1600/7896%2BProminent%2BAngle-lined%2BCATClostera%2Binclusa%2BPoplar%2BTentmaker%2Bin%2Btent%2B%2B9-06-09%2Bpg271Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></div>The larva is known as the <b>Poplar Tentmaker</b>. They will spin silk around several leaves of Willow, Aspen, or Poplars. D. Brooks photos<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bqOruDPTfsA/VI3dZnrqL2I/AAAAAAAALbk/Lg3ObmXBN38/s1600/map_oh_7896.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bqOruDPTfsA/VI3dZnrqL2I/AAAAAAAALbk/Lg3ObmXBN38/s1600/map_oh_7896.png" /></a></div>#7896<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bNxRJfg4UVI/VI3d06GCDYI/AAAAAAAALbs/c_BtranvRw8/s1600/JV7898%2BClostera%2Bstrigosa%2B28mm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bNxRJfg4UVI/VI3d06GCDYI/AAAAAAAALbs/c_BtranvRw8/s1600/JV7898%2BClostera%2Bstrigosa%2B28mm.JPG" height="333" width="400" /></a></div><b>Striped Chocolate-tip</b>, <i>Clostera strigosa</i>. The forewing is more blotched than the previous two. The white lines are more wavy than straight. The orange patch in the wing corner is more yellow in this species. This is a species of the northern U.S. and Canada. Look for it in the upper portions of Ohio. This species is much smaller than other members of the genus.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UATJqDn-X2s/VI3fRqzUG6I/AAAAAAAALb4/J4GUeotg5Co/s1600/map_oh_7898.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UATJqDn-X2s/VI3fRqzUG6I/AAAAAAAALb4/J4GUeotg5Co/s1600/map_oh_7898.png" /></a></div>#7898<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y0kFreVd64k/VI3l0VZe1VI/AAAAAAAALcI/yH6LxD3H9ww/s1600/JV7901b-Clostera%2Bapicalis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y0kFreVd64k/VI3l0VZe1VI/AAAAAAAALcI/yH6LxD3H9ww/s1600/JV7901b-Clostera%2Bapicalis.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Apical Prominent,</b> <i>Clostera apicalis</i>. This species is in my area, and I've yet to come across it. That's probably because <i>apicalis</i> has combined characters of the above species, and I have mistaken it for one of them. It has the V shape of <i>inclusa</i>, and the dark orange spot of <i>albosigma</i>. Instead of a white S, look for a white tornado mark on the wing edge. The row of black spots outside the V is more distinct in this species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mGPyEhbaZ9E/VI3rGMxp2wI/AAAAAAAALcY/IYdIHlI0LzE/s1600/map_oh_7901.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mGPyEhbaZ9E/VI3rGMxp2wI/AAAAAAAALcY/IYdIHlI0LzE/s1600/map_oh_7901.png" /></a></div>#7901<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jGYqoRISrqo/VI3rjGMd21I/AAAAAAAALcg/rF7PndP-PBc/s1600/JV7915-Nadata%2Bgibbosa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jGYqoRISrqo/VI3rjGMd21I/AAAAAAAALcg/rF7PndP-PBc/s1600/JV7915-Nadata%2Bgibbosa.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>White-dotted Prominent</b>, <i>Nadata gibbosa</i>. This is a very common and widely distributed species. The two dark lines border two white dots in the wing. The wing margins are wavy. When at rest, there is a large tuft of pointy hairs behind the head.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hN_ZMIV8cYQ/VKB9zPw3wwI/AAAAAAAAL3w/QkCSZImY3YU/s1600/7915%2BProminent%2BWhite-dotted%2B7915%2BNadata%2Bgibbosa%2B7-21-13%2Bpg%2B279%2BDiane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hN_ZMIV8cYQ/VKB9zPw3wwI/AAAAAAAAL3w/QkCSZImY3YU/s1600/7915%2BProminent%2BWhite-dotted%2B7915%2BNadata%2Bgibbosa%2B7-21-13%2Bpg%2B279%2BDiane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="237" width="400" /></a></div>Diane Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcDfzEaZT1c/VI3sgbYaTEI/AAAAAAAALco/N0ab5A5Xb5c/s1600/map_oh_7915.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcDfzEaZT1c/VI3sgbYaTEI/AAAAAAAALco/N0ab5A5Xb5c/s1600/map_oh_7915.png" /></a></div>#7915<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXnFPZnyRiE/VI3tozgXw4I/AAAAAAAALc0/yQv6H0sz8N0/s1600/JV7917a-Hyperaeschra%2Bgeorgica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXnFPZnyRiE/VI3tozgXw4I/AAAAAAAALc0/yQv6H0sz8N0/s1600/JV7917a-Hyperaeschra%2Bgeorgica.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Georgia Prominent</b>, <i>Hyperaeschra georgica</i>. The dull gray wings contain a number of horizontal black dashes. There is a small yellow oval patch at the base of the wing. This and the following species of <i>Peridea</i> all show a black circular patch of scales that protrude into the hind wing when pinned.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lx6LZ_OonxE/VI3ujEXTnpI/AAAAAAAALc8/EnXXzSu22pI/s1600/map_oh_7917.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lx6LZ_OonxE/VI3ujEXTnpI/AAAAAAAALc8/EnXXzSu22pI/s1600/map_oh_7917.png" /></a></div>#7917<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PSAJQw-igoo/VI3y8Hc3RxI/AAAAAAAALdI/F4MDrIW8bHw/s1600/JV7919b-Peridea%2Bbasitriens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PSAJQw-igoo/VI3y8Hc3RxI/AAAAAAAALdI/F4MDrIW8bHw/s1600/JV7919b-Peridea%2Bbasitriens.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Oval-based Prominent</b>, <i>Peridea basitriens</i>. The common name is in reference to the round brown patch at the bottom of the front wing. Look for gray shading above that. All our species of Peridea show either yellow abdomens, or yellow at the base of the hindwing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yEJj_Zttt48/VKB-UWLmYeI/AAAAAAAAL34/681B2--HvPg/s1600/7919%2BProminent%2BOval-based%2BPeridea%2Bbasitriens%2B8-05-14Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yEJj_Zttt48/VKB-UWLmYeI/AAAAAAAAL34/681B2--HvPg/s1600/7919%2BProminent%2BOval-based%2BPeridea%2Bbasitriens%2B8-05-14Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="393" width="400" /></a></div>Diane Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JypNZjtVp2w/VI30PwSLLNI/AAAAAAAALdU/kZ6l5BylWSI/s1600/map_oh_7919.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JypNZjtVp2w/VI30PwSLLNI/AAAAAAAALdU/kZ6l5BylWSI/s1600/map_oh_7919.png" /></a></div>#7919<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hfoeq3oJD2E/VI30oDtCpmI/AAAAAAAALdc/JqvxPR-kwKk/s1600/JV7920-Peridea%2Bangulosa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hfoeq3oJD2E/VI30oDtCpmI/AAAAAAAALdc/JqvxPR-kwKk/s1600/JV7920-Peridea%2Bangulosa.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Angulose Prominent</b>, <i>Peridea angulosa</i>. Rather than a round patch, the base of the forewing has a dark patch extending from top to bottom. It is bordered by a zig-zag or Z shaped line. The grayish white shading forms a vertical streak alongside the zig-zag. Small bits of orange are scattered around the inner half of the wing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ybxm4Zm7p18/VKB_F5UQc-I/AAAAAAAAL4I/DAAbbHpCcHw/s1600/7920%2BProminent%2BAngulose%2BPeridea%2Bangulosa%2B7-23-14%2Bpg%2B279Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ybxm4Zm7p18/VKB_F5UQc-I/AAAAAAAAL4I/DAAbbHpCcHw/s1600/7920%2BProminent%2BAngulose%2BPeridea%2Bangulosa%2B7-23-14%2Bpg%2B279Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="400" width="383" /></a></div>Diane Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Kq8IozHcac/VI31sv24gcI/AAAAAAAALdo/Te5E05AdMfo/s1600/map_oh_7920.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Kq8IozHcac/VI31sv24gcI/AAAAAAAALdo/Te5E05AdMfo/s1600/map_oh_7920.png" /></a></div>#7920<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XlsGABn2eMU/VI32sBFAFdI/AAAAAAAALdw/jikW8RovxsM/s1600/JV7921f-Peridea%2Bferruginea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XlsGABn2eMU/VI32sBFAFdI/AAAAAAAALdw/jikW8RovxsM/s1600/JV7921f-Peridea%2Bferruginea.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C0YVkm1Hv30/VI32xno1L0I/AAAAAAAALd4/MVIfVhvlniA/s1600/JV7921m-ferruginea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C0YVkm1Hv30/VI32xno1L0I/AAAAAAAALd4/MVIfVhvlniA/s1600/JV7921m-ferruginea.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Chocolate Prominent</b>, <i>Peridea ferruginea</i>. Female above, male below. While there is a circular dark patch in the wing like <i>basitriens</i>, and a white streak like <i>angulosa</i>, all one really has to look for is the rufus or reddish-brown tint of both sexes. Probably more widespread in Ohio than records indicate.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tbUkaGE5aEQ/VI34ol4GEEI/AAAAAAAALeE/n6WAeesAzWc/s1600/map_oh_7921.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tbUkaGE5aEQ/VI34ol4GEEI/AAAAAAAALeE/n6WAeesAzWc/s1600/map_oh_7921.png" /></a></div>#7921<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VZAU5kiszCg/VI35LOmimFI/AAAAAAAALeM/hTwYsx6IZVU/s1600/JV7924-Odontosia%2Belegans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VZAU5kiszCg/VI35LOmimFI/AAAAAAAALeM/hTwYsx6IZVU/s1600/JV7924-Odontosia%2Belegans.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HUUvfaMtoh8/VI35mfSaovI/AAAAAAAALec/IpIdSKDtb_k/s1600/Odontosia%2Belegans%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HUUvfaMtoh8/VI35mfSaovI/AAAAAAAALec/IpIdSKDtb_k/s1600/Odontosia%2Belegans%2B2.jpg" height="400" width="355" /></a></div><b>Elegant Prominent,</b> <i>Odontosia elegans</i>. A species with solid grayish-brown wings highlighted by an orange-brown patch at the base of the forewings. The tuft of scales that stick out of the front wings are sharper or more tooth like rather than round.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b_qZ17GKc1I/VI37GAqRfnI/AAAAAAAALeo/FxS_O0ir2Jc/s1600/map_oh_7924.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b_qZ17GKc1I/VI37GAqRfnI/AAAAAAAALeo/FxS_O0ir2Jc/s1600/map_oh_7924.png" /></a></div>#7924<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mqLCbpllTog/VI373c18ECI/AAAAAAAALew/Yq370p7Fjj8/s1600/JV7922-Pheosia%2Brimosa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mqLCbpllTog/VI373c18ECI/AAAAAAAALew/Yq370p7Fjj8/s1600/JV7922-Pheosia%2Brimosa.jpg" height="400" width="325" /></a></div><b><br /></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qn5O2lOMTpU/VJ8NuFMdYmI/AAAAAAAALyw/PAyhyhBZYHo/s1600/7922%2BProminent%2BBlack-rimmed%2B7922%2BPheosia%2Brimosa%2B7-06-14%2Bpg273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qn5O2lOMTpU/VJ8NuFMdYmI/AAAAAAAALyw/PAyhyhBZYHo/s1600/7922%2BProminent%2BBlack-rimmed%2B7922%2BPheosia%2Brimosa%2B7-06-14%2Bpg273.jpg" height="308" width="400" /></a></div><b>Black-rimmed Prominent,</b> <i>Pheosia rimosa</i>. A large white streak bordered by black and brown extends throughout the wing, making identification of this species easy. It is common and widespread around the state. Diane Brooks photo.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lcND133JsuI/VI38__njWjI/AAAAAAAALe8/jtcsKMiavfs/s1600/map_oh_7922.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lcND133JsuI/VI38__njWjI/AAAAAAAALe8/jtcsKMiavfs/s1600/map_oh_7922.png" /></a></div>#7922<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m6NxLvG9JKA/VI3-DeJqQ6I/AAAAAAAALfE/rSuE2EbtcyQ/s1600/JV7926f-Notodonta%2Bscitipennis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m6NxLvG9JKA/VI3-DeJqQ6I/AAAAAAAALfE/rSuE2EbtcyQ/s1600/JV7926f-Notodonta%2Bscitipennis.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Finned-willow Prominent</b>, <i>Notodonta scitipennis</i>. The tip of the wings show two black streaks followed by a rusty brown line going down the outer portion of the wing. The light color is a purplish-gray mix. The base of the wing has a distinct yellow patch. This is apparently not a common species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xNda8H073sQ/VI3-8-2hsLI/AAAAAAAALfM/q7tFrvdIxZc/s1600/map_oh_7926.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xNda8H073sQ/VI3-8-2hsLI/AAAAAAAALfM/q7tFrvdIxZc/s1600/map_oh_7926.png" /></a></div>#7926<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9DEKeLX8MaU/VI4BYpkQVSI/AAAAAAAALfY/zeWS5_HqWPk/s1600/JV7928-Notodonta%2Btorva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9DEKeLX8MaU/VI4BYpkQVSI/AAAAAAAALfY/zeWS5_HqWPk/s1600/JV7928-Notodonta%2Btorva.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Northern Finned Prominent,</b> <i>Notodonta torva (simplaria)</i>. A species of the upper Great Lakes and Canada, just extending down into northern Ohio. The dull color pattern is typical of so many in this family. The center of the wing is darker gray, and bordered by zig-zag lines. Within that darker area is a gray eye spot or <i>reniform</i> spot, surrounded by white.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F8bP2jwvJoQ/VI4CtFKTHKI/AAAAAAAALfk/4gRX1QQy8ng/s1600/map_oh_7928.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F8bP2jwvJoQ/VI4CtFKTHKI/AAAAAAAALfk/4gRX1QQy8ng/s1600/map_oh_7928.png" /></a></div>#7928<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-THGWziLdIh0/VI4DkVv2YjI/AAAAAAAALfs/XbugQ3lGC7k/s1600/JV7930-Illida%2Bcaniplaga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-THGWziLdIh0/VI4DkVv2YjI/AAAAAAAALfs/XbugQ3lGC7k/s1600/JV7930-Illida%2Bcaniplaga.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Basswood</b> or <b>Linden Prominent</b>, <i>Illida caniplaga</i>. A light gray species with usually a double black line coming down from the wing margin. To make sure of the identification, I use the comma or crescent moon shape located behind those black lines.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyktm5PJC1w/VKB__6RFmGI/AAAAAAAAL4U/GH05GRCFuZ0/s1600/7930%2BProminent%2BLinden%2BEllida%2Bcaniplaga%2B4-21-14%2Bpg%2B279Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyktm5PJC1w/VKB__6RFmGI/AAAAAAAAL4U/GH05GRCFuZ0/s1600/7930%2BProminent%2BLinden%2BEllida%2Bcaniplaga%2B4-21-14%2Bpg%2B279Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="400" width="385" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eBV3RYBecqM/VI4EgCILHII/AAAAAAAALf0/ZrVlBjcCw2I/s1600/map_oh_7930.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eBV3RYBecqM/VI4EgCILHII/AAAAAAAALf0/ZrVlBjcCw2I/s1600/map_oh_7930.png" /></a></div>#7930<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Wh8J2hokAE/VJMv5YKKmUI/AAAAAAAALgE/4IRyFeul5sU/s1600/JV7931bW-300-35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Wh8J2hokAE/VJMv5YKKmUI/AAAAAAAALgE/4IRyFeul5sU/s1600/JV7931bW-300-35.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bG2DPK-fGcA/VJMv72tG2PI/AAAAAAAALgM/pAVSKqcmRT0/s1600/JV7931f-Gluphisia%2Bseptentrionis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bG2DPK-fGcA/VJMv72tG2PI/AAAAAAAALgM/pAVSKqcmRT0/s1600/JV7931f-Gluphisia%2Bseptentrionis.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PiT8jzMuEYo/VJMv9xeRoCI/AAAAAAAALgU/T10JWHsU7oc/s1600/JV7931ma-300-27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PiT8jzMuEYo/VJMv9xeRoCI/AAAAAAAALgU/T10JWHsU7oc/s1600/JV7931ma-300-27.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Common Gluphisia</b>, <i>Gluphisia septentrionis</i>. A highly variable species, but I see it most often in this all gray form just above the text. There may be a small yellow patch extending outward from the thorax near the base of the wings. Two faded black lines come down the wing that appear wavy or zig-zag. Between those two lines may be a small slightly orange-yellow patch. Those areas may be solid black or filled with orange on other color forms of this species.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MkgInqKFGWc/VKCAroWXKnI/AAAAAAAAL4c/EGyc0TFKq1I/s1600/7931%2BGulphisia%2BCommon%2BGulphisia%2Bseptentrionis%2B7-03-14%2Bpg273Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MkgInqKFGWc/VKCAroWXKnI/AAAAAAAAL4c/EGyc0TFKq1I/s1600/7931%2BGulphisia%2BCommon%2BGulphisia%2Bseptentrionis%2B7-03-14%2Bpg273Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="330" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZO5D7se2l1M/VJMwAB08KQI/AAAAAAAALgc/P4vw3yWCzQE/s1600/map_oh_7931.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZO5D7se2l1M/VJMwAB08KQI/AAAAAAAALgc/P4vw3yWCzQE/s1600/map_oh_7931.png" /></a></div>#7931<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M4UQeCk7TNU/VJMzfFnhKnI/AAAAAAAALgo/0OEaCGB73u8/s1600/JV7933a-Gluphisia%2Bavimacula.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M4UQeCk7TNU/VJMzfFnhKnI/AAAAAAAALgo/0OEaCGB73u8/s1600/JV7933a-Gluphisia%2Bavimacula.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xx9TOacgEtQ/VJMznYVjdDI/AAAAAAAALgw/HMWdV9Hz9zY/s1600/JV7933b-300-30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xx9TOacgEtQ/VJMznYVjdDI/AAAAAAAALgw/HMWdV9Hz9zY/s1600/JV7933b-300-30.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Four-spotted Gluphisia</b>, <i>Gluphisia avimacula</i>. Look for the four small yellow spots in the wings, otherwise it is similar to the previous species. The Gluphisia moths are mottled gray, with two wavy lines in the forewings (known as AM &amp; PM lines). In this species, the AM or inner most line is more prominent. This second form shows the small dots occurring as larger yellow patches. Rarely you may find a solid black and gray form as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VSgCO7cWKEM/VJM2tZod3yI/AAAAAAAALg8/sFylvUOj1xI/s1600/map_oh_7933.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VSgCO7cWKEM/VJM2tZod3yI/AAAAAAAALg8/sFylvUOj1xI/s1600/map_oh_7933.png" /></a></div>This species is more common northward. Our Ohio records are some of the most southern for this species in the east and midwest. #7933<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wyi9oXe59dI/VJM3mpci0fI/AAAAAAAALhE/emFfWDpCO7A/s1600/JV7934%2BGluphisia%2Blintneri%2B35mm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wyi9oXe59dI/VJM3mpci0fI/AAAAAAAALhE/emFfWDpCO7A/s1600/JV7934%2BGluphisia%2Blintneri%2B35mm.JPG" height="355" width="400" /></a></div><b>Lintner's Gluphisia</b>, <i>Gluphisia lintneri</i>. This is another northern species barely reaching down into Ohio. Look in the space between the AM &amp; PM lines, it should be filled with yellow-orange.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PLdSMPSNCTE/VJM6L5MxiJI/AAAAAAAALhQ/Jw--_sZDQug/s1600/map_oh_7934.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PLdSMPSNCTE/VJM6L5MxiJI/AAAAAAAALhQ/Jw--_sZDQug/s1600/map_oh_7934.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7934<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4zzy2aIVdLQ/VJM8BpHnPVI/AAAAAAAALhc/YuIPnXgoSk0/s1600/JV7942-Cerura%2Bscitiscripta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4zzy2aIVdLQ/VJM8BpHnPVI/AAAAAAAALhc/YuIPnXgoSk0/s1600/JV7942-Cerura%2Bscitiscripta.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SLA0c1aihaQ/VJM8G48lniI/AAAAAAAALhk/XalCxgih6R4/s1600/JV7942a-scitiscripta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SLA0c1aihaQ/VJM8G48lniI/AAAAAAAALhk/XalCxgih6R4/s1600/JV7942a-scitiscripta.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Black-Etched Prominent</b>, <i>Cerura scitiscripta</i>. This species has white forewings. A series of black lines run down the wing. On the darker forms, look for the horizontal veins to also be streaked in black. On the inner portion of the wing, there is a row of gray-green circles. Lighter forms with the white hind wings tend to be more southern in range.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r8ZJ3dQIxCw/VJ8I0OgEcLI/AAAAAAAALyY/f8UYvlSghbk/s1600/Moth%2BProminent%2BBlack-etched%2B7942%2BW%2BEGGS%2B8-03-14%2Bfrom%2BClearCreekMetro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r8ZJ3dQIxCw/VJ8I0OgEcLI/AAAAAAAALyY/f8UYvlSghbk/s1600/Moth%2BProminent%2BBlack-etched%2B7942%2BW%2BEGGS%2B8-03-14%2Bfrom%2BClearCreekMetro.jpg" height="233" width="400" /></a></div>A photo from Diane showing a female with eggs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kfoNuDeFuT0/VJM94jwAvGI/AAAAAAAALhs/-fhiBAojazY/s1600/Cerura%2Bprominent%2Bcat%2Bdefense.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kfoNuDeFuT0/VJM94jwAvGI/AAAAAAAALhs/-fhiBAojazY/s1600/Cerura%2Bprominent%2Bcat%2Bdefense.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The purple-green caterpillar is striking. It will wave those two long tails in the air as part of its defense mechanism. Look for it on Aspen, Cottonwood, and Willow.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-knyTwLmYpbA/VJM-nmRfMcI/AAAAAAAALh0/p0j6QopldVA/s1600/map_oh_7942.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-knyTwLmYpbA/VJM-nmRfMcI/AAAAAAAALh0/p0j6QopldVA/s1600/map_oh_7942.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7942<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XrVFRR8ssqM/VJNAafoftAI/AAAAAAAALiA/QDDdXPQnjPc/s1600/JV7936-Furcula%2Bborealis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XrVFRR8ssqM/VJNAafoftAI/AAAAAAAALiA/QDDdXPQnjPc/s1600/JV7936-Furcula%2Bborealis.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>White Furcula</b>, <i>Furcula borealis</i>. There are four species of Furcula moths in Ohio. They are all black, white, and gray. Each has a row of black dots along the outer edge of both the front and hind wings. The amount of black varies between species. When fresh, many of the species will also show orange dots bordering the black. On <i>borealis</i>, pay attention to the two <u>very white</u> patches in the forewing. They have <u>many</u> pepper marks scattered within. This species feeds on Cherry, but most others will be found on Willow, Aspen, and other Poplars.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kdRnJr1SBO4/VKCBNzvJ2aI/AAAAAAAAL4k/fisSVznMa-Q/s1600/7936%2BFurcula%2BWhite%2BFurcula%2Bborealis%2B5-28-14%2Bpg%2B275Tented%2BDiane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kdRnJr1SBO4/VKCBNzvJ2aI/AAAAAAAAL4k/fisSVznMa-Q/s1600/7936%2BFurcula%2BWhite%2BFurcula%2Bborealis%2B5-28-14%2Bpg%2B275Tented%2BDiane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="345" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WcF22UYevX4/VJNCIRHzgjI/AAAAAAAALiI/DmpzkwJPqYU/s1600/map_oh_7936.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WcF22UYevX4/VJNCIRHzgjI/AAAAAAAALiI/DmpzkwJPqYU/s1600/map_oh_7936.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7936<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eePU7eu2ZRc/VJNCoZe-C2I/AAAAAAAALiM/6cj3c4dx-XA/s1600/JV7941-Furcula%2Bmodesta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eePU7eu2ZRc/VJNCoZe-C2I/AAAAAAAALiM/6cj3c4dx-XA/s1600/JV7941-Furcula%2Bmodesta.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Modest Furcula</b>, <i>Furcula modesta</i>. Not as brilliant as <i>borealis</i>. The white is duller and paler. The large black streak in the wing is constricted in the middle, making it more hourglass in shape. In some specimens the hourglass may be split into two separate patches. The outer black mark does not come down the wing, but is more blunt, and ends abruptly. There is only a 'modest' amount of black peppering throughout.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-31QlI4srwFA/VJNFYBbnZMI/AAAAAAAALiY/YIqp6IlfFmo/s1600/map_oh_7941.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-31QlI4srwFA/VJNFYBbnZMI/AAAAAAAALiY/YIqp6IlfFmo/s1600/map_oh_7941.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7941<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pz1ebIhWUb4/VJNGKZonDuI/AAAAAAAALig/_LAMh2kAWf4/s1600/JV7939-Furcula%2Boccidentalis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pz1ebIhWUb4/VJNGKZonDuI/AAAAAAAALig/_LAMh2kAWf4/s1600/JV7939-Furcula%2Boccidentalis.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Western Furcula</b>, <i>Furcula occidentalis</i>. On this species the dark black bands are somewhat reduced to mottled gray patches. The amount of yellow or orange spotting will vary. The PM line, or outer zig-zag line shows <u>two</u>&nbsp;sets of&nbsp;black teeth protruding out into the wing.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3-3yU2bwPlE/VJNHwy1NBQI/AAAAAAAALis/5h30Q27O2Vc/s1600/map_oh_7939.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3-3yU2bwPlE/VJNHwy1NBQI/AAAAAAAALis/5h30Q27O2Vc/s1600/map_oh_7939.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7939<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2Ee6ho7nGU/VJNIWnCeaiI/AAAAAAAALi0/D4fTA8HwDmo/s1600/JV7937-Furcula%2Bcinerea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2Ee6ho7nGU/VJNIWnCeaiI/AAAAAAAALi0/D4fTA8HwDmo/s1600/JV7937-Furcula%2Bcinerea.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Gray Furcula</b>, <i>Furcula cinerea</i>. An appropriate common name for the one species that shows little to no black patches. If markings are present, they are usually dark gray. Because the species is primarily all gray, the yellow or orange dots are often easier to spot on this species. This is fairly common in Ohio.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WgUU0TNdvlk/VJNJfrmoaGI/AAAAAAAALjA/vg5422F_ApQ/s1600/map_oh_7937.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WgUU0TNdvlk/VJNJfrmoaGI/AAAAAAAALjA/vg5422F_ApQ/s1600/map_oh_7937.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7937<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eTSPh0bg3tE/VKbNB4XiIiI/AAAAAAAAL90/PzXZIKZbknE/s1600/7953%2BOakworm%2BOrange-humped%2BSymmerista%2Bleucitys%2B5-03-14%2Bpg287%2BMAYBE%2BDiane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eTSPh0bg3tE/VKbNB4XiIiI/AAAAAAAAL90/PzXZIKZbknE/s1600/7953%2BOakworm%2BOrange-humped%2BSymmerista%2Bleucitys%2B5-03-14%2Bpg287%2BMAYBE%2BDiane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="330" width="400" /></a></div>Symmerista moths. There are three species in Ohio. As you'll see with the following pictures, the adults all look alike. D. Brooks photo<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dnonas-kyw8/VJ8URNW42vI/AAAAAAAALzI/tnsT1iHndQQ/s1600/JV7951-Symmerista%2Balbifrons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dnonas-kyw8/VJ8URNW42vI/AAAAAAAALzI/tnsT1iHndQQ/s1600/JV7951-Symmerista%2Balbifrons.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pNQFMQVsf3M/VJ8UXYCKM3I/AAAAAAAALzQ/wgvTkpvXaus/s1600/white%2Bmarked%2Bprominent.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pNQFMQVsf3M/VJ8UXYCKM3I/AAAAAAAALzQ/wgvTkpvXaus/s1600/white%2Bmarked%2Bprominent.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>White-marked</b> or <b>White-headed Prominent</b>, <i>Symmerista albifrons.</i>&nbsp;This and the following two species are virtually <u><b>IDENTICAL</b></u>, at least when observed in the field. Records for these three are probably mixed together. See my comments at the end.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uFRt9YXlIRA/VJ8WJ8De6YI/AAAAAAAALzc/jJpdx_RgB7M/s1600/map_oh_7951.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uFRt9YXlIRA/VJ8WJ8De6YI/AAAAAAAALzc/jJpdx_RgB7M/s1600/map_oh_7951.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7951<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kwbewgtJMjw/VJ8WaRcthFI/AAAAAAAALzk/25hjZyQK7tk/s1600/JV7952-Symmersita%2Bcanicosta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kwbewgtJMjw/VJ8WaRcthFI/AAAAAAAALzk/25hjZyQK7tk/s1600/JV7952-Symmersita%2Bcanicosta.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Red-humped Oakworm</b>, <i>Symmerista canicosta</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AW2ijYHpRFg/VJ8WzkqKlqI/AAAAAAAALzs/ze84nmjz9LE/s1600/map_oh_7952.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AW2ijYHpRFg/VJ8WzkqKlqI/AAAAAAAALzs/ze84nmjz9LE/s1600/map_oh_7952.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7952<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7M-J4QmkbTo/VJ8XGkWcy3I/AAAAAAAALz0/bFljE7reTN0/s1600/JV7953-Symmerista%2Bleucitys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7M-J4QmkbTo/VJ8XGkWcy3I/AAAAAAAALz0/bFljE7reTN0/s1600/JV7953-Symmerista%2Bleucitys.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Orange-humped Oakworm</b>, <i>Symmerista leucitys</i>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vtjDNgzLOyU/VKEE8yeFCGI/AAAAAAAAL7U/rLfcj2k5XNU/s1600/7953%2BOakworm%2BOrange-humped%2BCAT%2BSymmerista%2Bleucitys%2B9-30-08%2Bpg287DianeP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vtjDNgzLOyU/VKEE8yeFCGI/AAAAAAAAL7U/rLfcj2k5XNU/s1600/7953%2BOakworm%2BOrange-humped%2BCAT%2BSymmerista%2Bleucitys%2B9-30-08%2Bpg287DianeP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks photo<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x6W1zKAH3XY/VJ8XquazlWI/AAAAAAAALz8/36CZJTu5BCc/s1600/map_oh_7953.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x6W1zKAH3XY/VJ8XquazlWI/AAAAAAAALz8/36CZJTu5BCc/s1600/map_oh_7953.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7953<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VjWMtbRtLhE/VJ8X-3gMC_I/AAAAAAAAL0E/jTOXBm7s-Tk/s1600/albifrons%2Barrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VjWMtbRtLhE/VJ8X-3gMC_I/AAAAAAAAL0E/jTOXBm7s-Tk/s1600/albifrons%2Barrow.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></div>As I stated, these three can not be reliably separated in the field. You have to look at the genitalia. Dissection is not necessary, but you have to have the specimen in hand. If you brush the scales off the abdomen, you can tell which species it is. No one is going to do that if you are just taking pictures, but in words I often hate using myself, I'm "just sayin'". This is how you do it.<br /><br />Click on the photo for the details. This is <i>albifrons</i>. Notice the dark outline is <b>U </b>shaped on this species. On <i>canicosta</i>, the U shape is much <u>wider</u>, like a deep dug out canal or hole. On <i>leucitys</i>, it is skinny or <u>constricted inward</u>, like part of an hourglass, (right at the tip of the arrow).<br /><br />Part 2&nbsp;<a href="http://fieldbioinohio.blogspot.com/2015/01/prominent-moths-of-ohio-part-2.html" target="_blank">here</a>DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-605665857523642132015-01-02T13:00:00.002-05:002015-01-02T13:00:56.109-05:00Prominent Moths of Ohio part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c2sIvaQL404/VJhg6WAQIDI/AAAAAAAALjc/JONZ_hFXfbY/s1600/O.%2Bsemirufescens%2C%2Bred-washed%2Bprominent.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c2sIvaQL404/VJhg6WAQIDI/AAAAAAAALjc/JONZ_hFXfbY/s1600/O.%2Bsemirufescens%2C%2Bred-washed%2Bprominent.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KpYpyLZtMO0/VJhhqKGWCoI/AAAAAAAALjk/8hcByL9aRDE/s1600/JV8012-Oligocentria%2Bsemirufescens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KpYpyLZtMO0/VJhhqKGWCoI/AAAAAAAALjk/8hcByL9aRDE/s1600/JV8012-Oligocentria%2Bsemirufescens.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>Oligocentria moths are those which fold their wings around the body or around a twig to blend in with their environment. Both our species show white spots at the top and bottom of the forewing. They also have a black dash next to the white patch. This one is <i>Oligocentria semirufescens</i>, the <b>Red-washed Prominent</b>. On the live specimen you can see the brick red shading near the top of the wings. On the pinned specimen, we see the reddish marks are actually located at the bottom of the wing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tMlOk_bkiNY/VKCCmdIMNFI/AAAAAAAAL4s/KzrNC243cnE/s1600/8012%2BProminent%2BRed-washed%2BCAT%2BOligocentria%2Bsemirufescens%2B8-13-04%2Bpg285DianeP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tMlOk_bkiNY/VKCCmdIMNFI/AAAAAAAAL4s/KzrNC243cnE/s1600/8012%2BProminent%2BRed-washed%2BCAT%2BOligocentria%2Bsemirufescens%2B8-13-04%2Bpg285DianeP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>Diane Brooks photo<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GhgZoEADSJk/VJhihZItmzI/AAAAAAAALjw/mLSlbibY6VE/s1600/map_oh_8012.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GhgZoEADSJk/VJhihZItmzI/AAAAAAAALjw/mLSlbibY6VE/s1600/map_oh_8012.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#8012<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZAIzAfxFtU/VJhjNqJZdNI/AAAAAAAALkA/KltPJS9j9LM/s1600/Oligocentria%2Blignicolor%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZAIzAfxFtU/VJhjNqJZdNI/AAAAAAAALkA/KltPJS9j9LM/s1600/Oligocentria%2Blignicolor%2B2.jpg" height="322" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T1E2cc5l4xU/VJhjS027J0I/AAAAAAAALkI/U2ym6HfQ-VE/s1600/JV8017-Oligocentria%2Blignicolor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T1E2cc5l4xU/VJhjS027J0I/AAAAAAAALkI/U2ym6HfQ-VE/s1600/JV8017-Oligocentria%2Blignicolor.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>White-streaked Prominent</b>, <i>Oligocentria lignicolor</i>. As the name implies, look for lots of short white streaks through the wings. The reddish color is missing on this species. Also in the previous species, a large black circle is evident in the middle of the wing. In this species it is reduced to a little dash. Notice the raised tuft of hair on the thorax forming a Mr. T mohawk.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03Zk1FyQ_2c/VJ8IIMYzKjI/AAAAAAAALyQ/nX9yNz1zGlg/s1600/map_oh_8017.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03Zk1FyQ_2c/VJ8IIMYzKjI/AAAAAAAALyQ/nX9yNz1zGlg/s1600/map_oh_8017.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#8017<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7DRoI1n029w/VJhmcAAbIWI/AAAAAAAALkU/P6zRduIFiBY/s1600/JV7958f-Dasylophia%2Bthyatiroides.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7DRoI1n029w/VJhmcAAbIWI/AAAAAAAALkU/P6zRduIFiBY/s1600/JV7958f-Dasylophia%2Bthyatiroides.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2FuKaYhQSLI/VJhmhoL0gII/AAAAAAAALkc/zcH9ROwBH1w/s1600/JV7958m-thyatriodes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2FuKaYhQSLI/VJhmhoL0gII/AAAAAAAALkc/zcH9ROwBH1w/s1600/JV7958m-thyatriodes.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Gray-patched Prominent</b>, <i>Dasylophia thyatiroides</i>. Look in the first picture for the orange-brown patch at the base of the forewing. Another orange-brown to reddish patch exists at the tip of the wing. Centered between them is a big gray patch. The male (below) lacks these color distinctions. What both sexes have in common is a black boomerang shape coming up from the bottom of the wing. Behind that is a black streak on the edge of the wing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kGksmXk8dNY/VKCDlq6mN2I/AAAAAAAAL40/KS8JOe0-LNo/s1600/7958%2BProminent%2BGray-patched%2BDasylophia%2Bthyatiroides%2B8-05-14%2Bpg287Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kGksmXk8dNY/VKCDlq6mN2I/AAAAAAAAL40/KS8JOe0-LNo/s1600/7958%2BProminent%2BGray-patched%2BDasylophia%2Bthyatiroides%2B8-05-14%2Bpg287Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="323" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PbRT23Ui3qs/VKCDtAKotmI/AAAAAAAAL48/G7qyMMWHmuE/s1600/7958%2BProminent%2BGray-patched%2BDasylophia%2Bthyatiroides%2B8-06-14%2Bpg287Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PbRT23Ui3qs/VKCDtAKotmI/AAAAAAAAL48/G7qyMMWHmuE/s1600/7958%2BProminent%2BGray-patched%2BDasylophia%2Bthyatiroides%2B8-06-14%2Bpg287Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="306" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks photos<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DBub8eZFuUk/VJhomejxVPI/AAAAAAAALko/ZMn_4MXWy04/s1600/map_oh_7958.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DBub8eZFuUk/VJhomejxVPI/AAAAAAAALko/ZMn_4MXWy04/s1600/map_oh_7958.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7958<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OaAjJDSETEc/VJho09w9TLI/AAAAAAAALkw/kqUDLOZlvws/s1600/JV7957f-Dasylophia%2Banguina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OaAjJDSETEc/VJho09w9TLI/AAAAAAAALkw/kqUDLOZlvws/s1600/JV7957f-Dasylophia%2Banguina.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RythVF2ssII/VJho6lS1z9I/AAAAAAAALk4/fIeDSu1E1ck/s1600/JV7957m-anguina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RythVF2ssII/VJho6lS1z9I/AAAAAAAALk4/fIeDSu1E1ck/s1600/JV7957m-anguina.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Black-spotted Prominent</b>, <i>Dasylophia anguina</i>. Similar to the previous species in that the females have a large orangish-brown patch in the wing. It is not bordered by any black as in the last species. The distinction between the other gray and orange patches in unclear, so don't spend too much time looking for it. As in <i>thyatiroides</i>, this species is sexually dimorphic. This species lacks the black boomerang. The streak along the wing edge is set further in, and is <u>separated</u> into two black spots.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gF1JWfxQQGo/VKCEQQjVzNI/AAAAAAAAL5E/Gsa8OT8eDvg/s1600/7957%2BProminent%2BBlack-spotted%2BDasylophia%2Banguina%2B6-04-13%2BTented%2BDiane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gF1JWfxQQGo/VKCEQQjVzNI/AAAAAAAAL5E/Gsa8OT8eDvg/s1600/7957%2BProminent%2BBlack-spotted%2BDasylophia%2Banguina%2B6-04-13%2BTented%2BDiane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="286" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_u5L9p8Yzfg/VKCEXawBayI/AAAAAAAAL5M/y3fHLGgtojw/s1600/7957%2BProminent%2BBlack-spotted%2BDasylophia%2Banguina%2B8-09-13%2Bpg279Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_u5L9p8Yzfg/VKCEXawBayI/AAAAAAAAL5M/y3fHLGgtojw/s1600/7957%2BProminent%2BBlack-spotted%2BDasylophia%2Banguina%2B8-09-13%2Bpg279Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="278" width="400" /></a></div>Male and female shots from Diane.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8kpALMYpbKs/VJhq6IgyuJI/AAAAAAAALlE/6fsZ59IuhYI/s1600/map_oh_7957.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8kpALMYpbKs/VJhq6IgyuJI/AAAAAAAALlE/6fsZ59IuhYI/s1600/map_oh_7957.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7957<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jtfr8T40zCw/VJhsNmfHXzI/AAAAAAAALlQ/HlT1V6lA_0E/s1600/JV7975-Macrurocampa%2Bmarthesia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jtfr8T40zCw/VJhsNmfHXzI/AAAAAAAALlQ/HlT1V6lA_0E/s1600/JV7975-Macrurocampa%2Bmarthesia.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Mottled Prominent,</b> <i>Macrurocampa marthesia</i>. This is a large robust species. The base of the forewing is dark gray. The rest of the wing is mixed with streaks of white, black, and gray. The two black triangles further down the wing are not always evident. Does the moth overall look to have a green shading? The green color is VERY evident in live specimens, especially on the thorax, but I have seen them appear whitish as well. I do not use the tuft of hairs at the end of the abdomen because so many prominent moths have that same character.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GWxxVfFbswI/VKCFm9_19vI/AAAAAAAAL5Y/eoD4re-KWqY/s1600/7975%2BProminent%2BMottled%2BMacrurocampa%2Bmarthesia%2B8-09-14%2Bpg281Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GWxxVfFbswI/VKCFm9_19vI/AAAAAAAAL5Y/eoD4re-KWqY/s1600/7975%2BProminent%2BMottled%2BMacrurocampa%2Bmarthesia%2B8-09-14%2Bpg281Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="372" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLbgOXfTB5g/VJht64LkgPI/AAAAAAAALlk/aTPIUbBgGfU/s1600/mottled%2Bprominent%2BMacrurocampa%2Bmarthesia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLbgOXfTB5g/VJht64LkgPI/AAAAAAAALlk/aTPIUbBgGfU/s1600/mottled%2Bprominent%2BMacrurocampa%2Bmarthesia.jpg" height="317" width="400" /></a></div>I just recently photographed the caterpillar. Look for the mottled pink face, and the two tails at the rear. The amount of red on the back will vary with age.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ljuLM8YzrV8/VJhtmVDi7nI/AAAAAAAALlc/XZWBh5qySKU/s1600/map_oh_7975.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ljuLM8YzrV8/VJhtmVDi7nI/AAAAAAAALlc/XZWBh5qySKU/s1600/map_oh_7975.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7975<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OAODn_RIDNw/VJhuxlMvtmI/AAAAAAAALls/NZ7qvDSZC2Q/s1600/JV7974-Misogada%2Bunicolor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OAODn_RIDNw/VJhuxlMvtmI/AAAAAAAALls/NZ7qvDSZC2Q/s1600/JV7974-Misogada%2Bunicolor.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b><br /></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m8lSxwfqKJc/VJ8OeSGmWJI/AAAAAAAALy4/8yNmwgWKkMA/s1600/7974%2BProminent%2BDrab%2B7974%2BMisogada%2Bunicolor%2B5-03-14%2Bpg279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m8lSxwfqKJc/VJ8OeSGmWJI/AAAAAAAALy4/8yNmwgWKkMA/s1600/7974%2BProminent%2BDrab%2B7974%2BMisogada%2Bunicolor%2B5-03-14%2Bpg279.jpg" height="295" width="400" /></a></div><b>Drab Prominent</b>, <i>Misogada unicolor</i>. Drab is an understatement. Whenever I come across this, it leads me to this species simply because it has fewer markings than anything in the family. In Jim's picture, it appears to show two zig-zag black lines. When alive, as in Diane's picture, these lines are covered by a dusting of greenish scales. Notice how each zig-zag indentation ends in a black tip. Other than the green, those black tips are usually the only thing evident when seeing this species in the field.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XJ_JeEjoC2o/VKECtL7Ue3I/AAAAAAAAL7E/eWNlzagPp60/s1600/7974%2BProminent%2BDrab%2BCAT%2BMisogada%2Bunicolor%2B8-08-14%2Bpg279Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XJ_JeEjoC2o/VKECtL7Ue3I/AAAAAAAAL7E/eWNlzagPp60/s1600/7974%2BProminent%2BDrab%2BCAT%2BMisogada%2Bunicolor%2B8-08-14%2Bpg279Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8YBCrD-m_Bc/VJhwBOrBREI/AAAAAAAALl4/qyMGyWNJ6jc/s1600/map_oh_7974.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8YBCrD-m_Bc/VJhwBOrBREI/AAAAAAAALl4/qyMGyWNJ6jc/s1600/map_oh_7974.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7974<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wlKUnlgQNfs/VJkFjnqWhqI/AAAAAAAALtA/2BEl5qeN_DI/s1600/JV7983f-Heterocampa%2Bobliqua.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wlKUnlgQNfs/VJkFjnqWhqI/AAAAAAAALtA/2BEl5qeN_DI/s1600/JV7983f-Heterocampa%2Bobliqua.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b><br /></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvBFg5AyXW4/VJkGz5khcwI/AAAAAAAALtI/gHEMeVZVgSM/s1600/JV7983m-obliqua.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvBFg5AyXW4/VJkGz5khcwI/AAAAAAAALtI/gHEMeVZVgSM/s1600/JV7983m-obliqua.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Oblique Heterocampa</b>, <i>Heterocampa obliqua</i>. The genus Heterocampa contains some of the largest and most stout looking of all the Prominent moths. In this species both sexes have a black curved line in the middle of the wing. A white streak comes down from the tip. In between those marks, the female (above) has an orange to brown patch.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RUyuhnw6da0/VKCGHqdipoI/AAAAAAAAL5g/AFD0ElWAFq8/s1600/7983%2BHeterocampa%2BOblique%2BHeterocampa%2Bobliqua%2B7-02-14%2Bpg281Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RUyuhnw6da0/VKCGHqdipoI/AAAAAAAAL5g/AFD0ElWAFq8/s1600/7983%2BHeterocampa%2BOblique%2BHeterocampa%2Bobliqua%2B7-02-14%2Bpg281Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="397" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YRGuITDsM4Y/VJkHvSTjkOI/AAAAAAAALtM/T5XO8UBUf1k/s1600/map_oh_7983.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YRGuITDsM4Y/VJkHvSTjkOI/AAAAAAAALtM/T5XO8UBUf1k/s1600/map_oh_7983.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7983<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WwErHrpN3L8/VJkI7CdxO5I/AAAAAAAALtU/1eXOFoXfGms/s1600/JV7990f-Heterocampa%2Bumbrata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WwErHrpN3L8/VJkI7CdxO5I/AAAAAAAALtU/1eXOFoXfGms/s1600/JV7990f-Heterocampa%2Bumbrata.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b><br /></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TG-FatorurE/VJkJRWFrljI/AAAAAAAALtc/u9EDXKoRZhc/s1600/JV7990m-umbrata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TG-FatorurE/VJkJRWFrljI/AAAAAAAALtc/u9EDXKoRZhc/s1600/JV7990m-umbrata.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>White-blotched Heterocampa</b>, <i>Heterocamps umbrata</i>. This species also has a black curved line in the middle of the wing, though more faint. Above that is a white patch in the female, a bit more greenish in the male. There is no large white streak as in <i>obliqua, </i>just a dash of white at the ends.&nbsp;The wings show black teeth marks similar to <i>Macrurocampa</i> above, but the rest of the color marking are different. Most species in this genus show black spots on the abdomen.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z17XzfO008c/VKCHJ_oWj3I/AAAAAAAAL5s/5K_j2JaIWMw/s1600/7990%2BHeterocampa%2BWhite-blotched%2BHeterocampa%2Bumbrata%2B6-05-14%2Bpg281Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z17XzfO008c/VKCHJ_oWj3I/AAAAAAAAL5s/5K_j2JaIWMw/s1600/7990%2BHeterocampa%2BWhite-blotched%2BHeterocampa%2Bumbrata%2B6-05-14%2Bpg281Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i5LlsH7grgU/VJkK5Ft1PdI/AAAAAAAALto/ahyCI4ggjfs/s1600/map_oh_7990.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i5LlsH7grgU/VJkK5Ft1PdI/AAAAAAAALto/ahyCI4ggjfs/s1600/map_oh_7990.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7990<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pPr36vq09I0/VJkLKbwCuhI/AAAAAAAALtw/hInh-ihicWM/s1600/JV7985-Heterocampa%2Bsubrotata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pPr36vq09I0/VJkLKbwCuhI/AAAAAAAALtw/hInh-ihicWM/s1600/JV7985-Heterocampa%2Bsubrotata.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Small Heterocampa</b>, <i>Heterocampa subrotata</i>. This is not a tiny moth. It's only small in reference to the other species in the genus. Several things to look for. The middle of the wing has a green shading. The AM and PM lines are orange. The black tooth marks look more like thin lines or faded dashes.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-47ZX-GrtPFk/VKCHoGfXXrI/AAAAAAAAL50/iYAv7ZF1NfQ/s1600/7985%2BHeterocampa%2BSmall%2BHeterocampa%2Bsubrotata%2B7-05-14%2Bpg281Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-47ZX-GrtPFk/VKCHoGfXXrI/AAAAAAAAL50/iYAv7ZF1NfQ/s1600/7985%2BHeterocampa%2BSmall%2BHeterocampa%2Bsubrotata%2B7-05-14%2Bpg281Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="316" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pLtEoc-5u4w/VJkMRoYfFVI/AAAAAAAALt8/VVxRMsnH9Rs/s1600/map_oh_7985.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pLtEoc-5u4w/VJkMRoYfFVI/AAAAAAAALt8/VVxRMsnH9Rs/s1600/map_oh_7985.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7985<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RlOUJ9s1iEo/VJkNW_qjHMI/AAAAAAAALuE/_h4GcBmZduA/s1600/JV7995-Heterocampa%2Bbiundata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RlOUJ9s1iEo/VJkNW_qjHMI/AAAAAAAALuE/_h4GcBmZduA/s1600/JV7995-Heterocampa%2Bbiundata.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Bs0lHVIpQQ/VJkNdggMMOI/AAAAAAAALuM/XInurqOSEqw/s1600/Wavy-lined%2Bprominent%2BHeterocampa%2Bbiundata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Bs0lHVIpQQ/VJkNdggMMOI/AAAAAAAALuM/XInurqOSEqw/s1600/Wavy-lined%2Bprominent%2BHeterocampa%2Bbiundata.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Wavy-lined Heterocampa</b>, <i>Heterocampa biundata</i>. Very similar to the previous species with the AM and PM lines wavy and orange. The difference is the <u>entire</u> wing is green. The black marks are not tooth like, nor are they thin lines, but appear as a row of dots instead.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TkyB_LBXXR8/VJkOgBfRTHI/AAAAAAAALuU/hgmy01mrSVk/s1600/map_oh_7995.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TkyB_LBXXR8/VJkOgBfRTHI/AAAAAAAALuU/hgmy01mrSVk/s1600/map_oh_7995.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7995<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lOwEG3UcR10/VJkQHEnKDSI/AAAAAAAALug/WocnWFH32FY/s1600/JV7994f-guttivatta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lOwEG3UcR10/VJkQHEnKDSI/AAAAAAAALug/WocnWFH32FY/s1600/JV7994f-guttivatta.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5imVMmW6go/VJkQNTK4CqI/AAAAAAAALuo/11x3eD6ehL8/s1600/JV7994-Heterocampa%2Bguttivatta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5imVMmW6go/VJkQNTK4CqI/AAAAAAAALuo/11x3eD6ehL8/s1600/JV7994-Heterocampa%2Bguttivatta.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Saddled Prominent</b>, <i>Heterocampa guttivitta</i>. This is the most variable and difficult species in the group. The AM and PM lines are faded and almost non-existant. The black spots are also faded and indistinct. The female at least has a white streak in the wing, but even that is rather light. It's called the Saddled Prominent because the caterpillar has a brown mark on the middle of its back.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBL5JfGXed0/VKCIbtw20PI/AAAAAAAAL6A/O0x6KoIOHdw/s1600/7994%2BProminent%2BSaddled%2BHeterocampa%2Bguttivitta%2B5-07-13%2Bpg281Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks%2BMAYBE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBL5JfGXed0/VKCIbtw20PI/AAAAAAAAL6A/O0x6KoIOHdw/s1600/7994%2BProminent%2BSaddled%2BHeterocampa%2Bguttivitta%2B5-07-13%2Bpg281Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks%2BMAYBE.jpg" height="335" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br />In case I didn't mention it earlier, all moths with green coloration will fade to gray in a collection over time. Even fresh though, the female can look all gray. The males on the other hand are all green, and look virtually identical to the Drab Prominent I pictured earlier. In the Drab, the zig-zag lines end in a black tip. On this species, those lines end in <u>white</u> tips.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-COfmZMXxkrc/VJkSxzf8JkI/AAAAAAAALu0/XUyD8yX6iWk/s1600/map_oh_7994.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-COfmZMXxkrc/VJkSxzf8JkI/AAAAAAAALu0/XUyD8yX6iWk/s1600/map_oh_7994.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7994<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NaseOElz1dA/VJkVW53czuI/AAAAAAAALvA/45SnpY0KMSk/s1600/JV7999%2BLochmaeus%2Bbilineata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NaseOElz1dA/VJkVW53czuI/AAAAAAAALvA/45SnpY0KMSk/s1600/JV7999%2BLochmaeus%2Bbilineata.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Double-lined Prominent</b>, <i>Lochmaeus bilineata</i>. Lochmaeus species are gray with dark hind wings. The Z shaped or zig-zag lines are distinct with darker gray shading in the middle. Paralleling those lines is another gray zig-zag line near the outer portion of the wing. This is a common species in Ohio.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TvfpH8wyZDA/VKCJGpYFqRI/AAAAAAAAL6I/YId-B3o47Hw/s1600/7999%2BProminent%2BDouble-lined%2BLochmaeus%2Bbilineata%2B6-05-14%2Bpg283Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TvfpH8wyZDA/VKCJGpYFqRI/AAAAAAAAL6I/YId-B3o47Hw/s1600/7999%2BProminent%2BDouble-lined%2BLochmaeus%2Bbilineata%2B6-05-14%2Bpg283Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="328" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pk6tjGRKpGo/VJkWjoe8bbI/AAAAAAAALvI/UlR7paCz2Es/s1600/map_oh_7999.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pk6tjGRKpGo/VJkWjoe8bbI/AAAAAAAALvI/UlR7paCz2Es/s1600/map_oh_7999.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7999<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2TWWQ3s6dk/VJkW0jd2A3I/AAAAAAAALvQ/o4JKMvJlGa0/s1600/JV7998-Lochmaeus%2Bmanteo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2TWWQ3s6dk/VJkW0jd2A3I/AAAAAAAALvQ/o4JKMvJlGa0/s1600/JV7998-Lochmaeus%2Bmanteo.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4s3S0V86n84/VJkW6BGwb2I/AAAAAAAALvY/GN_CKXOF9ps/s1600/Lochmaeus%2Bmanteo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4s3S0V86n84/VJkW6BGwb2I/AAAAAAAALvY/GN_CKXOF9ps/s1600/Lochmaeus%2Bmanteo.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b><br /></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7mCGTaWRh-Q/VJkXR4yPUzI/AAAAAAAALvg/AN5ssFCatqg/s1600/Variable%2Boak%2Bleaf%2Bbest%2C%2Bmanteo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7mCGTaWRh-Q/VJkXR4yPUzI/AAAAAAAALvg/AN5ssFCatqg/s1600/Variable%2Boak%2Bleaf%2Bbest%2C%2Bmanteo.jpg" height="283" width="400" /></a></div><b>Variable Oakleaf Prominent</b>, <i>Lochmaeus manteo</i>. Variable is right. Not only does the caterpillar show many color forms, the moth is one I can never get right when I see it in the field. I have to capture it or photograph it and compare to other known specimens before I can put a name to it. The outer edge is dotted with pepper marks, which are usually distinct. The other gray and black shading can be quite different in the rest of the wing. Even those small white dashes are often missing. A common, but very difficult species to recognize.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M08LKOw70fU/VJkZEgvdA7I/AAAAAAAALvs/FzhtDg8SDNU/s1600/map_oh_7998.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M08LKOw70fU/VJkZEgvdA7I/AAAAAAAALvs/FzhtDg8SDNU/s1600/map_oh_7998.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7998<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L9yxYqsKjcs/VJkaFhi_eFI/AAAAAAAALv0/1Uh2IHnv_HI/s1600/JV8005a-Schizura%2Bipomoeae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L9yxYqsKjcs/VJkaFhi_eFI/AAAAAAAALv0/1Uh2IHnv_HI/s1600/JV8005a-Schizura%2Bipomoeae.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mg-ZKqCfcl4/VJkaKeWN2XI/AAAAAAAALv8/SDfKaU_cx6Q/s1600/JV8005c-ipomoeae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mg-ZKqCfcl4/VJkaKeWN2XI/AAAAAAAALv8/SDfKaU_cx6Q/s1600/JV8005c-ipomoeae.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IyRgJFsdkOY/VJkbSF0X69I/AAAAAAAALwE/ly7inqk4nuw/s1600/Schizura%2Bipomoeae%2Bback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IyRgJFsdkOY/VJkbSF0X69I/AAAAAAAALwE/ly7inqk4nuw/s1600/Schizura%2Bipomoeae%2Bback.jpg" height="275" width="400" /></a></div><b>Morning-Glory Prominent</b>, <i>Schizura ipomoeae</i>. The Schizura group of Prominents are generally smaller than most members of the family, but at least easier to identify than some of the moths we just went over. The main portion of the wing can be light or dark. The best ID character is the white streak that extends across the top of the wing.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XifkdlN3bU/VJkb0VDJ_nI/AAAAAAAALwM/VVXQaTTA8SA/s1600/map_oh_8005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XifkdlN3bU/VJkb0VDJ_nI/AAAAAAAALwM/VVXQaTTA8SA/s1600/map_oh_8005.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#8005<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BZwyD6DYiTI/VJkcWecYQ6I/AAAAAAAALwU/wmTFq0rDXZs/s1600/JV8006-Schizura%2Bbadia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BZwyD6DYiTI/VJkcWecYQ6I/AAAAAAAALwU/wmTFq0rDXZs/s1600/JV8006-Schizura%2Bbadia.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Chestnut Prominent</b>, <i>Schizura badia</i>. The center of the wing is usually light colored, but the lower outer portions and the basal center are often tinged in reddish-pink. Also notice the streaking black comet in the forewings. In contrast to the light wings, the thorax is very dark. Most species of Schizura caterpillars feed on a wide variety of plants, but look for this on Viburnum shrubs.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iRmm0gRF6sk/VKCKOEUHGbI/AAAAAAAAL6U/5ZMTw6Qb7x8/s1600/8006%2BProminent%2BSchizura%2BChestn%2BSchizura%2Bbadia%2B7-01-14%2Bpg283Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iRmm0gRF6sk/VKCKOEUHGbI/AAAAAAAAL6U/5ZMTw6Qb7x8/s1600/8006%2BProminent%2BSchizura%2BChestn%2BSchizura%2Bbadia%2B7-01-14%2Bpg283Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="280" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_japPQNluiI/VJkdd_kAbmI/AAAAAAAALwc/It9AYzaM_5U/s1600/map_oh_8006.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_japPQNluiI/VJkdd_kAbmI/AAAAAAAALwc/It9AYzaM_5U/s1600/map_oh_8006.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#8006<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--U-tTuzd0ag/VJkd-X8mdhI/AAAAAAAALwk/L6SlPWA041A/s1600/JV8007-Schizura%2Bunicornis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--U-tTuzd0ag/VJkd-X8mdhI/AAAAAAAALwk/L6SlPWA041A/s1600/JV8007-Schizura%2Bunicornis.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUdtNzdFKuo/VJkeKlzfMpI/AAAAAAAALws/bVPknen0iwc/s1600/unicorn%2Bcat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUdtNzdFKuo/VJkeKlzfMpI/AAAAAAAALws/bVPknen0iwc/s1600/unicorn%2Bcat.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Unicorn Prominent</b>, <i>Schizura unicornis</i>. So named for the large horn behind the caterpillars thorax. The larvae resemble the Morning-glory Prominent above, but lack the large white patch in the middle of the back. As for the adults, the upper tips of the wings have a white patch, with rusty markings just below. This area is bordered by black dots above, a black dash below, and a black circle in the middle. AM and PM lines are white, but often unnoticeable. The base of the forewings can be green, as shown in these specimens, or sometimes rust colored.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WUQ3o90Xcuo/VKCLNAmvVwI/AAAAAAAAL6c/LQHMeplIja4/s1600/8007%2BProminent%2BUnicorn%2BSchizura%2Bunicornis%2B8-07-13%2Bpg283Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WUQ3o90Xcuo/VKCLNAmvVwI/AAAAAAAAL6c/LQHMeplIja4/s1600/8007%2BProminent%2BUnicorn%2BSchizura%2Bunicornis%2B8-07-13%2Bpg283Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="302" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ud9-x3wvX_U/VJkgKT3o2aI/AAAAAAAALw4/U28BMegs5V4/s1600/map_oh_8007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ud9-x3wvX_U/VJkgKT3o2aI/AAAAAAAALw4/U28BMegs5V4/s1600/map_oh_8007.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#8007<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lwngad89Cw8/VJkiUHitlvI/AAAAAAAALxE/exc6f45jOUM/s1600/JV8009-Schizura%2Bapicalis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lwngad89Cw8/VJkiUHitlvI/AAAAAAAALxE/exc6f45jOUM/s1600/JV8009-Schizura%2Bapicalis.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Plain Schizura</b>, <i>Schizura apicalis</i>. Called plain due to the fact it has very little going for it. It's essentially a dull gray moth with variable shades of white. Look for the black comma or crescent shape in the upper wings. The hind wings are very white, and contain a large black spot at the bottom. This is uncommon in Ohio.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Q3vitWklfA/VJkjtElHiOI/AAAAAAAALxQ/0lPiC3cmvUc/s1600/map_oh_8009.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Q3vitWklfA/VJkjtElHiOI/AAAAAAAALxQ/0lPiC3cmvUc/s1600/map_oh_8009.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#8009<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2lv2lSzTqCU/VJkkLMacCaI/AAAAAAAALxY/tldiIFugGts/s1600/JV8010f-Schizura%2Bconcinna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2lv2lSzTqCU/VJkkLMacCaI/AAAAAAAALxY/tldiIFugGts/s1600/JV8010f-Schizura%2Bconcinna.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QBEpT5r7-ig/VJkkRezYLQI/AAAAAAAALxg/3wjfXgrc5kY/s1600/JV8010m-concinna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QBEpT5r7-ig/VJkkRezYLQI/AAAAAAAALxg/3wjfXgrc5kY/s1600/JV8010m-concinna.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Red-humped Prominent</b>, <i>Schizura concinna</i>. Another species named for a large swelling on the back of the caterpillar. The light colored top of the wing turns into yellowish in the center, with the bottom portions being a brick red. In live specimens, the red would appear on its back. The male lacks as much yellow and red, and is more gray. Both sexes have a reduced reniform spot, (the small black dot in the center of the wing).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8biDnEk6-w/VKCL-R8q6KI/AAAAAAAAL6k/cWdYiFsRB4o/s1600/8010%2BRed-humped%2BCaterpillar%2Bmoth%2BSchizura%2Bconcinna%2B7-20-13%2Bpg%2B285Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8biDnEk6-w/VKCL-R8q6KI/AAAAAAAAL6k/cWdYiFsRB4o/s1600/8010%2BRed-humped%2BCaterpillar%2Bmoth%2BSchizura%2Bconcinna%2B7-20-13%2Bpg%2B285Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="248" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-JYd7wUmLI/VKCMPwn0_-I/AAAAAAAAL6s/totROK5UO54/s1600/8010%2BRed-humped%2BCaterpillar%2BCAT%2BSchizura%2Bconcinna%2B8-16-12%2Bpg285Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-JYd7wUmLI/VKCMPwn0_-I/AAAAAAAAL6s/totROK5UO54/s1600/8010%2BRed-humped%2BCaterpillar%2BCAT%2BSchizura%2Bconcinna%2B8-16-12%2Bpg285Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="365" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks photos<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xNCqXAhXZ98/VJko8GxVilI/AAAAAAAALxs/kOn3A0KMQsg/s1600/map_oh_8010.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xNCqXAhXZ98/VJko8GxVilI/AAAAAAAALxs/kOn3A0KMQsg/s1600/map_oh_8010.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#8010<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gKdJ6BUeCj0/VJkpphlS8tI/AAAAAAAALx0/0OBXcoGKhws/s1600/JV8011-Schizura%2Bleptinoides.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gKdJ6BUeCj0/VJkpphlS8tI/AAAAAAAALx0/0OBXcoGKhws/s1600/JV8011-Schizura%2Bleptinoides.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Black-blotched Prominent</b>, <i>Schizura leptinoides</i>. The ground color of this species is less than spectacular. The identification is in the details. The outer tip of the wing has a white patch. The reniform dot is once again small, but it is surrounded by a charcoal shading, usually more distinct than this photo shows. Also look for the long black streak arising from the basal area of the forewing. Others show that same streak, but it's not as obvious, or not needed to identify it.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--tQRoCoUoZM/VKbFWg6n-tI/AAAAAAAAL9I/M3-azOWoAAM/s1600/8011%2BProminent%2BSchizura%2BBlack-blotched%2BSchizura%2Bleptinoides%2B7-31-14%2Bpg285Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--tQRoCoUoZM/VKbFWg6n-tI/AAAAAAAAL9I/M3-azOWoAAM/s1600/8011%2BProminent%2BSchizura%2BBlack-blotched%2BSchizura%2Bleptinoides%2B7-31-14%2Bpg285Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks-2.jpg" height="253" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nOTJUTvA_gc/VKCNXmRwtbI/AAAAAAAAL60/yNd1xfpA8xI/s1600/8011%2BSchizura%2BBlack-blotched%2B%2BCAT%2BSchizura%2Bleptinoides%2B6-18-13%2Bpg%2B285Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nOTJUTvA_gc/VKCNXmRwtbI/AAAAAAAAL60/yNd1xfpA8xI/s1600/8011%2BSchizura%2BBlack-blotched%2B%2BCAT%2BSchizura%2Bleptinoides%2B6-18-13%2Bpg%2B285Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="371" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks photos<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dRv9vpZytdE/VJkrPrrAWzI/AAAAAAAALyA/rcqEudN8nG4/s1600/map_oh_8011.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dRv9vpZytdE/VJkrPrrAWzI/AAAAAAAALyA/rcqEudN8nG4/s1600/map_oh_8011.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#8011<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fB4sXRl3PeM/VJ8kd_6-o3I/AAAAAAAAL0U/gHTySj-vtTY/s1600/datana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fB4sXRl3PeM/VJ8kd_6-o3I/AAAAAAAAL0U/gHTySj-vtTY/s1600/datana.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>Clearly, and without a doubt, THE most difficult group to separate are the Datana species. There are seven in Ohio. They have 4-5 dark lines in the wings, some more distinct than others. Most have that black lightning streak on the outer tip of the forewing. Years ago I had the chance to sit down with Eric Metzler, who knows this group well, but I never got around to arranging a time. One of those regrets I now have. So I will fumble my way through this portion using several references and maybe a bit of Gestalt.<br /><br />First thing to do is split them into two groups:<br />Base color of the wings yellow to orange<br />Base color of the wings tawny or brown<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PJz1DZYdF_s/VJ8owK9zEDI/AAAAAAAAL0g/gjgR6pMfqsQ/s1600/JV7903-Datana%2Bangusii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PJz1DZYdF_s/VJ8owK9zEDI/AAAAAAAAL0g/gjgR6pMfqsQ/s1600/JV7903-Datana%2Bangusii.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oM8KMsAt2c4/VJ8q2wMB6qI/AAAAAAAAL00/kN4U8WOQg1E/s1600/datana%2Blarva%2Bangusii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oM8KMsAt2c4/VJ8q2wMB6qI/AAAAAAAAL00/kN4U8WOQg1E/s1600/datana%2Blarva%2Bangusii.jpg" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>Let's start with the darker ones. <b>Angus' Dantana</b>, <i>Dantana angusii</i>, has both sets of wings brown, and is often even darker between the first two black lines. Sometimes there is a small dark spot in that area. Five dark lines are distinct, though variable in intensity. The outer edge of the forewings are wavy.&nbsp;Head and thorax a deep chocolate brown.&nbsp;The body is also brown.&nbsp;The caterpillar is green to yellow striped, and without a colored hump on the neck. It feeds on Walnut, Hickory, Birch, and Basswood. A common species in the state.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RyFDwt-DFgA/VKELE7PCHZI/AAAAAAAAL7s/-1_jsx8srIo/s1600/7903%2BDatana%2BAngus'%2BMAYBE%2BDatana%2Bangusii%2B7-27-14%2Bpg277Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RyFDwt-DFgA/VKELE7PCHZI/AAAAAAAAL7s/-1_jsx8srIo/s1600/7903%2BDatana%2BAngus'%2BMAYBE%2BDatana%2Bangusii%2B7-27-14%2Bpg277Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="275" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zdcLpl4WMlE/VJ8qboQa7RI/AAAAAAAAL0s/LoN_CSAmp2E/s1600/map_oh_7903.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zdcLpl4WMlE/VJ8qboQa7RI/AAAAAAAAL0s/LoN_CSAmp2E/s1600/map_oh_7903.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7903<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TcaW9UcyTZ8/VJ8snKtp3jI/AAAAAAAAL1A/1pKjMSqm-M4/s1600/JV7907-D.%2Bintegerrima.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TcaW9UcyTZ8/VJ8snKtp3jI/AAAAAAAAL1A/1pKjMSqm-M4/s1600/JV7907-D.%2Bintegerrima.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Walnut Caterpillar Moth</b>, <i>Datana integerrima</i>. Walnut is a dark wood, and so is the moth. The head and thorax are a dark rusty-red. The edge of the wings are NOT wavy or scalloped. The dark lines are edged in white or pale yellow. There is also yellow in the hind wings. The caterpillar is black with large tufts of white hairs. Another very common species in Ohio. It feeds on Walnut and Hickories.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8Zhlb2PYCnw/VKELfXX_NLI/AAAAAAAAL70/sSYh3edSJOI/s1600/7907%2BDatana%2BWalnut%2BCaterpillar%2BMoth%2BDatana%2Bintegerrima%2B7-18-13%2Bpg277Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8Zhlb2PYCnw/VKELfXX_NLI/AAAAAAAAL70/sSYh3edSJOI/s1600/7907%2BDatana%2BWalnut%2BCaterpillar%2BMoth%2BDatana%2Bintegerrima%2B7-18-13%2Bpg277Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="327" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uXlWxoZo1L4/VJ8wToGDlFI/AAAAAAAAL1M/Z6Ewhk0kYzM/s1600/map_oh_7907.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uXlWxoZo1L4/VJ8wToGDlFI/AAAAAAAAL1M/Z6Ewhk0kYzM/s1600/map_oh_7907.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7907<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gR2z5eUSTas/VJ8wh3g_KRI/AAAAAAAAL1U/O4FysNJCP4E/s1600/JV7906a-300-35-NM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gR2z5eUSTas/VJ8wh3g_KRI/AAAAAAAAL1U/O4FysNJCP4E/s1600/JV7906a-300-35-NM.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OPS5fGpSCXg/VJ8wnGk7VXI/AAAAAAAAL1c/xGjOtEiGy6Q/s1600/JV7906-contracta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OPS5fGpSCXg/VJ8wnGk7VXI/AAAAAAAAL1c/xGjOtEiGy6Q/s1600/JV7906-contracta.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Contracted Datana</b>, <i>Datana contracta</i>. The wing margins are dark colored and straight, and the hind wings are light, very similar to the above species. We still see light streaks in the wings, but <u>not</u> as clearly as the previous species, nor do they seem to extend the full width of the wing. The brown patches and dark lines are often more weakly patterned, as in the first picture. The introduction of some orange scales starts to appear in this species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EgYQfVwb5HQ/VKbKI9bhO3I/AAAAAAAAL9g/Zu_NZUMCA7g/s1600/7906%2BDatana%2BContracted%2BDatana%2Bcontracta%2B7-15-14%2Bpg277Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EgYQfVwb5HQ/VKbKI9bhO3I/AAAAAAAAL9g/Zu_NZUMCA7g/s1600/7906%2BDatana%2BContracted%2BDatana%2Bcontracta%2B7-15-14%2Bpg277Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="255" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ug8KJiF1vhg/VKbKQANFNXI/AAAAAAAAL9o/HS49LUOSO_c/s1600/7906%2BDatana%2Bsp%2B7-23-14%2Bpg277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ug8KJiF1vhg/VKbKQANFNXI/AAAAAAAAL9o/HS49LUOSO_c/s1600/7906%2BDatana%2Bsp%2B7-23-14%2Bpg277.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks photos<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pR7TGL8K3gI/VJ8yqzx6PUI/AAAAAAAAL1o/B6lfBfwBGDs/s1600/map_oh_7906.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pR7TGL8K3gI/VJ8yqzx6PUI/AAAAAAAAL1o/B6lfBfwBGDs/s1600/map_oh_7906.png" height="320" width="266" /></a></div>#7906<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2RFAO6_XMNY/VJ80XV9JKXI/AAAAAAAAL10/H7gTiZ0Gn50/s1600/datana%2Bdrexelii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2RFAO6_XMNY/VJ80XV9JKXI/AAAAAAAAL10/H7gTiZ0Gn50/s1600/datana%2Bdrexelii.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Drexel's Datana</b>, <i>Datana drexelii</i>. This second group of species are more orange in color. Most show distinct wavy edges to their wings. The wavy edge on this species is reddish-brown. The hind, forewings, and body are uniform brownish-orange. The head and upper thorax are a brighter orange. The black dot and black comma mark are usually obvious in the wing. As the group goes, this is one of the larger species.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SZCjoEy2aSw/VKELv8im6cI/AAAAAAAAL78/5v6NOSySBZ8/s1600/7904%2BDatana%2BDrexel's%2BMAYBE%2BDatana%2Bdrexelii%2B%2B7-17-13%2Bpg277Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SZCjoEy2aSw/VKELv8im6cI/AAAAAAAAL78/5v6NOSySBZ8/s1600/7904%2BDatana%2BDrexel's%2BMAYBE%2BDatana%2Bdrexelii%2B%2B7-17-13%2Bpg277Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks.jpg" height="327" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VPknTBS-n2g/VKbGs0MFhVI/AAAAAAAAL9U/3fSDxE_n74Q/s1600/Moth%2BDatana%2BSpotted%2B7908%2BDatana%2Bperspicua%2B6-20-14%2Bpg279Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks%2BMAYBE%2Bor%2B7904%2BDrexel's-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VPknTBS-n2g/VKbGs0MFhVI/AAAAAAAAL9U/3fSDxE_n74Q/s1600/Moth%2BDatana%2BSpotted%2B7908%2BDatana%2Bperspicua%2B6-20-14%2Bpg279Diane%2BP.%2BBrooks%2BMAYBE%2Bor%2B7904%2BDrexel's-3.jpg" height="371" width="400" /></a></div>D. Brooks photos<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Wz-g124V1I/VJ82R-vlBiI/AAAAAAAAL2A/rutdXscsc4o/s1600/map_oh_7904.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Wz-g124V1I/VJ82R-vlBiI/AAAAAAAAL2A/rutdXscsc4o/s1600/map_oh_7904.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7904<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2KJUtQP0MyY/VJ82uBxDn8I/AAAAAAAAL2I/dhwf-HNKQy4/s1600/MEM7905%2BD.%2Bmajor%2BBob%2Bpatterson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2KJUtQP0MyY/VJ82uBxDn8I/AAAAAAAAL2I/dhwf-HNKQy4/s1600/MEM7905%2BD.%2Bmajor%2BBob%2Bpatterson.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Azalea Prominent</b>, <i>Datana major</i>. Similar to <i>drexelii </i>above, but with a more brownish base color, especially in the hind wing. The wing margin is not as wavy and is edged in darker brown. The black dot and comma mark are often less distinct. The caterpillar is mottled yellow and black with red underparts. Photo courtesy of Bob Patterson.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DllP887Pn24/VJ85XPPj1eI/AAAAAAAAL2U/ZnG68WBHoZA/s1600/map_oh_7905.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DllP887Pn24/VJ85XPPj1eI/AAAAAAAAL2U/ZnG68WBHoZA/s1600/map_oh_7905.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7905<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dj55Ko5-a0E/VJ86Qkar6QI/AAAAAAAAL2c/QGDgHxDHMjU/s1600/JV7902-Datana%2Bministra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dj55Ko5-a0E/VJ86Qkar6QI/AAAAAAAAL2c/QGDgHxDHMjU/s1600/JV7902-Datana%2Bministra.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-viOWma-7Kr8/VJ86ZIrBGwI/AAAAAAAAL2k/mCu3ggoIW4c/s1600/yellow-necked%2Bcat%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-viOWma-7Kr8/VJ86ZIrBGwI/AAAAAAAAL2k/mCu3ggoIW4c/s1600/yellow-necked%2Bcat%2B3.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Yellow-necked Caterpillar,</b> <i>Datana ministra</i>. Named for the yellow-orange hump behind the head of the larva. While Datana adults all look alike, I should mention that most of the caterpillars have distinct markings, making them easier to identify. This may account for the many records across the state on this species. Some people will raise caterpillars of this genus into adults, thereby knowing for sure which moth they have. In observing the adult, I first notice there are no darker shadings between the lines. Three of the lines are distinct, with the other two often faded or absent. Also notice the black dot and comma are usually missing. Hindwing is pale.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9XfdTwDECIA/VJ8-j-r0mnI/AAAAAAAAL2w/IAIzPr6MVwA/s1600/map_oh_7902.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9XfdTwDECIA/VJ8-j-r0mnI/AAAAAAAAL2w/IAIzPr6MVwA/s1600/map_oh_7902.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7902<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DbQNM0MmcPg/VJ8_VDeXcnI/AAAAAAAAL24/vmY-uuNKnRY/s1600/JV7908b-D.%2Bperspicua.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DbQNM0MmcPg/VJ8_VDeXcnI/AAAAAAAAL24/vmY-uuNKnRY/s1600/JV7908b-D.%2Bperspicua.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v2MUcfK-BvU/VJ8_aF_GoNI/AAAAAAAAL3A/kUycGhFy-So/s1600/JV7908a-Datana%2Bperspicua.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v2MUcfK-BvU/VJ8_aF_GoNI/AAAAAAAAL3A/kUycGhFy-So/s1600/JV7908a-Datana%2Bperspicua.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Spotted Datana</b>, <i>Datana perspicua</i>. Did I save the most difficult for last? Not really, that's a matter of opinion anyway. As the name implies, the wings show <u>two circular spots</u> rather than a comma streak. This is by far the most yellow species. In the field many may show a light tan or beige color. The hind wings are nearly pure yellowish-white. The wing margin on this one is straight, not wavy. You can see the intensity of the lines can vary among specimens, but another thing to notice, the middle lines often <u>stop</u>&nbsp;before reaching the top of the wing. The larvae look similar to <i>angusii</i>&nbsp;that I pictured earlier,&nbsp;but feed on Sumac and Oak.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KWax7o1N4VE/VJ9DZef90VI/AAAAAAAAL3M/F38BaQ7WVlQ/s1600/map_oh_7908.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KWax7o1N4VE/VJ9DZef90VI/AAAAAAAAL3M/F38BaQ7WVlQ/s1600/map_oh_7908.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>#7908<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Aj1L3bp9HA/VKEJ6lcaZBI/AAAAAAAAL7k/TzebOjb4t5w/s1600/7906%2BDatana%2Bsp%2Bgetting%2Bparisitized%2Bby%2Bfly%2Boak%2B9-08-14%2Bfly%2Bovipositor%2BOUT%2Bvideo%2Bnext.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Aj1L3bp9HA/VKEJ6lcaZBI/AAAAAAAAL7k/TzebOjb4t5w/s1600/7906%2BDatana%2Bsp%2Bgetting%2Bparisitized%2Bby%2Bfly%2Boak%2B9-08-14%2Bfly%2Bovipositor%2BOUT%2Bvideo%2Bnext.jpg" height="248" width="400" /></a></div>Diane sent this Datana larva, possibly <i>contracta</i>, about to be parasitized by a fly. I have tried to match up her adult photos the best I could with the known pinned specimens. Let's hope we got them right.<br /><br /><br /><br />DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-44109272932839348072014-11-19T16:33:00.000-05:002014-11-19T16:33:09.839-05:00A Few More Ohio Spiders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uMDtvDhISl8/VGy7Fh1lBiI/AAAAAAAALXI/harpG1vQ1E0/s1600/white%2Bstriped%2Bjumper%2BPelegrina%2Bproterva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uMDtvDhISl8/VGy7Fh1lBiI/AAAAAAAALXI/harpG1vQ1E0/s1600/white%2Bstriped%2Bjumper%2BPelegrina%2Bproterva.jpg" height="400" width="377" /></a></div>It's that time of year again where my posts become few and far between. Recent cold blasts have made it even more undesirable to be outside unless one has to. To keep the blog going, I was able to gather about 10 more spider species from the past season. None of these photos are great, but a post is a post.<br /><br />This is <i>Pelegrina proterva</i>, or what I call the <b>White-lined Jumping Spider</b>. Most spiders don't have common names, so I just make one up. Notice the <b>U</b> shaped white band around the abdomen. It breaks up into smaller spots near the rear. Other jumpers may have a similar pattern, so what do I use to separate it? There is a solid white band on the <u>front</u> of the head.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9HYWzhkz10g/VGy90K8afMI/AAAAAAAALXU/KTBK23NQmgM/s1600/Xysticus%2Bcrab%2BFairfield%2BCo.%2Bjune.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9HYWzhkz10g/VGy90K8afMI/AAAAAAAALXU/KTBK23NQmgM/s1600/Xysticus%2Bcrab%2BFairfield%2BCo.%2Bjune.jpg" height="368" width="400" /></a></div>After looking at the abdomen on this spider, my first thought was a type of Orb Weaver. Wrong, I should have paid more attention to those front legs, and how they are curved. This is a <b>Crab Spider</b>, possibly in the genus Bassaniana, but more likely a type of <i><b>Xysticus</b></i>. There are 14 of them that all look alike in photographs, and need to be under a scope to determine species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9pVRQhoOj8Q/VGzBe9UNYHI/AAAAAAAALXg/P3YbXdNLbpk/s1600/cave%2Borb%2Brhodo%2Bcove%2BMeta%2Bovalis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9pVRQhoOj8Q/VGzBe9UNYHI/AAAAAAAALXg/P3YbXdNLbpk/s1600/cave%2Borb%2Brhodo%2Bcove%2BMeta%2Bovalis.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Not much of a photo, but enough to identify it. It helps when there is someone along to hold a flashlight, but this was a solo effort. I took a whole series of these, and this is the only one to come out. That's because these were shot in pitch black darkness. It's called the <b>Cave Spider</b>, <i>Meta ovalis</i>, an orb weaver that lives in caves and overhangs of large boulders.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5pgA8tqEKBQ/VGzC5fLpbQI/AAAAAAAALXs/NUf23jbX4PQ/s1600/Tetragnatha%2Bprob.%2Bstraminea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5pgA8tqEKBQ/VGzC5fLpbQI/AAAAAAAALXs/NUf23jbX4PQ/s1600/Tetragnatha%2Bprob.%2Bstraminea.jpg" height="400" width="305" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_KmS1hlPRfg/VGzDEbfZVYI/AAAAAAAALX0/4Jsv8WwSVeo/s1600/Tetragnatha%2Bprob.%2Bstraminea%2Bbelow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_KmS1hlPRfg/VGzDEbfZVYI/AAAAAAAALX0/4Jsv8WwSVeo/s1600/Tetragnatha%2Bprob.%2Bstraminea%2Bbelow.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>A <i>Tetragnatha</i> species, probably <i>straminea</i>. The family is named for this genus, and is most often referred to as <b>Long-jawed Spiders</b>. In the upper photo, I focused in on the back of the abdomen. The silvery color is broken up by a darker mottled middle band. In the band are six small 'daggers', all pointing to a larger black 'sword' at the front of the abdomen. On the underside, the dark abdomen is lined with two yellow stripes. I have a lot to learn about Arachnids. I need to remember to start taking pictures of the face. The arrangement of the eyes helps put spiders into their appropriate group or family.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PYVjUAz7n0g/VGzybGVEjdI/AAAAAAAALYE/-bRWlzSummA/s1600/Pityohyphantes%2Bspider%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PYVjUAz7n0g/VGzybGVEjdI/AAAAAAAALYE/-bRWlzSummA/s1600/Pityohyphantes%2Bspider%2B2.jpg" height="311" width="400" /></a></div><i>Pityohphantes costatus</i>, a <b>Hammock Spider</b> or Sheetweb Spider. They are named for the shapes of their webs. The abdomen top and sides are dark, with light yellow in the middle. The cephalothorax has a black drill or 'jack-hammer' shape on it. These spiders are more commonly brown. I tried to subdue the colors a bit, but this guy was very abnormally orange.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p4fWEh6iM0s/VGz0FlkmZPI/AAAAAAAALYQ/LSdIJt-5P3A/s1600/Pityohyphantes%2Bmale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p4fWEh6iM0s/VGz0FlkmZPI/AAAAAAAALYQ/LSdIJt-5P3A/s1600/Pityohyphantes%2Bmale.jpg" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>This one is a male. Look in front of the face. You can tell by the enlarged circular pads at the end of their pedipalps. Many spiders use these pads to transfer sperm sacs to the female.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-luq0y69-Pfc/VGz2KvfghsI/AAAAAAAALYc/YQmNgATI6vQ/s1600/%2BThiodina%2Bsylvana%2Bwhite%2Bspot%2Bspider%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-luq0y69-Pfc/VGz2KvfghsI/AAAAAAAALYc/YQmNgATI6vQ/s1600/%2BThiodina%2Bsylvana%2Bwhite%2Bspot%2Bspider%2B4.jpg" height="345" width="400" /></a></div>This is another Jumping Spider in the genus <i>Thiodina</i>. Two species look alike, <i>puerpera</i> and <i>sylvana,</i> with sylvana being the more common. Observing the genitalia under a scope is needed to be sure. To get to this group, look for the striped abdomen, a dark orange head and cephalothorax, and a single light spot in the middle of it. I've seen these called the <b>White-spot Jumper</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uh7Ds2UAxPg/VGz3ytTL-FI/AAAAAAAALYo/ef-8LJ4VmNo/s1600/Thiodina%2Bsylvana%2Bwhite%2Bspot%2Beyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uh7Ds2UAxPg/VGz3ytTL-FI/AAAAAAAALYo/ef-8LJ4VmNo/s1600/Thiodina%2Bsylvana%2Bwhite%2Bspot%2Beyes.jpg" height="322" width="400" /></a></div>Here is a frontal shot. Jumping Spiders have their eyes arranged both on the front of the head as well as the top. This allows them to see in multiple directions at the same time.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OcVIa-_DGwM/VGz5CEmB4gI/AAAAAAAALY0/NUpcd1kr5H8/s1600/Hackled-mesh%2BWeb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OcVIa-_DGwM/VGz5CEmB4gI/AAAAAAAALY0/NUpcd1kr5H8/s1600/Hackled-mesh%2BWeb.jpg" height="400" width="391" /></a></div>Doesn't appear to be much to see here. That web looks old, used, and torn, as if it had been 'hacked' to pieces. This is the way this web is <u>supposed </u>to look. It belongs to the <b>Hackled Mesh Weavers</b>. They will commonly build their webs on old logs or rock surfaces. We were using that stick at the bottom to tickle the web in hopes the spider would pop out from its funnel web hidden under the moss.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ED01eUZMA9k/VGz6He2EHmI/AAAAAAAALY8/sADPSJwPj7g/s1600/Hackled-mesh%2BWeaver%2BCallobius%2Bbennetti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ED01eUZMA9k/VGz6He2EHmI/AAAAAAAALY8/sADPSJwPj7g/s1600/Hackled-mesh%2BWeaver%2BCallobius%2Bbennetti.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></div>Sure enough, it rapidly ran out to check the disturbance. This species is <i>Callobius bennetti</i>. The abdomen is dark, with a light brown dorsal patch. The legs are rufus, and the cephalothorax is glossy or shiny. The <i>chelicerae,</i> or mouthparts, are very large on this species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JJ7xyzK6TWE/VGz-pNBM3tI/AAAAAAAALZI/Vx7vfRsHjHc/s1600/Field%2BWolf%2BSpider%2Bfemale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JJ7xyzK6TWE/VGz-pNBM3tI/AAAAAAAALZI/Vx7vfRsHjHc/s1600/Field%2BWolf%2BSpider%2Bfemale.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The nice thing about workshops, is that sometimes the specimens are brought front and center in a container. This makes picture taking a little easier. For me cool pics are secondary to identification photos. This is a female <i>Hogna helluo</i>, otherwise known as the <b>Field Wolf Spider</b>. She has a dark patch on the front of the abdomen that otherwise blends into an all brown body. There is a thin tan line on the cephalothorax extending down between the eyes. One other character of note, the legs are uniform brown, unlike the banded legs of most other wolf spiders.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6u67f3rbcIQ/VG0ARPMW4SI/AAAAAAAALZU/GY39_rbMGag/s1600/Field%2BWolf%2BSpider%2Bmale%2BHogna%2Bhelluo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6u67f3rbcIQ/VG0ARPMW4SI/AAAAAAAALZU/GY39_rbMGag/s1600/Field%2BWolf%2BSpider%2Bmale%2BHogna%2Bhelluo.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>So what is this smaller, skinnier one? It's the <u>male</u> <b>Field Wolf Spider</b>. The tan thin line is much more obvious on him. Notice the cephalothorax is also rimmed in tan. This species is common in many moist habitats.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jHNtnv8Wvls/VG0DBXqIF5I/AAAAAAAALZg/7NmQusJOsNQ/s1600/Marpissa%2Bformosa%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jHNtnv8Wvls/VG0DBXqIF5I/AAAAAAAALZg/7NmQusJOsNQ/s1600/Marpissa%2Bformosa%2B2.jpg" height="400" width="381" /></a></div>Also captured in a container is our third Jumping Spider of this post. This tiny guy is <i>Marpissa formosa</i>. It has no common name. Hmm, what should we call it. How about the <b>Seven-spotted Jumper</b>? There are three white spots up by the eyes, and four more on the back of the Cephalothorax. The abdomen is rimmed in white, and the center has two broken white stripes. Also notice the front pair of legs are darker and thicker than the others.<br /><br />This is a male. The female has two brown stripes on the abdomen, and lacks any white spotting. While us men tend to sport a mustache from time to time, it's the female here who has a white mustache on her face.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nv5oss28Q7Y/VG0GSBVINUI/AAAAAAAALZs/_042EWBNIVQ/s1600/trap%2Bdoor%2Bspider%2BUmmidia%2Baudouini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nv5oss28Q7Y/VG0GSBVINUI/AAAAAAAALZs/_042EWBNIVQ/s1600/trap%2Bdoor%2Bspider%2BUmmidia%2Baudouini.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Eeewww! What the heck is this supposed to be? I put this on here to make a point. Even crumpled up spiders kept in an alcohol vial for years can still be identified by an expert. Turns out this is a <b>Trap Door</b> <b>Spider</b>, <i>Ummidia audouini</i>. The U shaped hump on the cephalothorax is key to this group.<br /><br />These spiders make a tunnel underground, and hide the top with a manhole cover. They peek out and pounce on any prey walking by, then pull it down, and fold the door closed. If you ever get a chance to see them do this live, or watch a film, they are neatest things.<br /><br />I'd like once again to thank the Ohio Spiderman, Richard Bradley for his help in verifying and/or correcting my identifications. Dr. Bradley doesn't just tell me what they are, but fills me with loads of information. I appreciate his going above and beyond in helping us amateurs.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-85676527981051896692014-10-31T12:23:00.000-04:002014-10-31T12:23:14.417-04:00Sure Signs of the Fall Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-819aXBFbUAg/VFOu2Hz_fAI/AAAAAAAALWY/Vn1YL4mn8Fo/s1600/ml%2Bviburnum%2Bpink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-819aXBFbUAg/VFOu2Hz_fAI/AAAAAAAALWY/Vn1YL4mn8Fo/s1600/ml%2Bviburnum%2Bpink.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Summers gone, it's getting dark earlier, time to set the clocks back, there is frost on the ground, and it is Buck Moth season.&nbsp;The progression of leaves and fruit changing color is the best part of fall.&nbsp;Winter is only six weeks away, yuck.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kBlab4Mmkn8/VFOwgypBx0I/AAAAAAAALWk/HFLJAyhMIUc/s1600/spicebush%2Bfruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kBlab4Mmkn8/VFOwgypBx0I/AAAAAAAALWk/HFLJAyhMIUc/s1600/spicebush%2Bfruit.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The barrel shaped fruit of the&nbsp;<b>Spicebush</b>,&nbsp;<i>Lindera benzoin</i>, mature into their bright red color mid to late September. Just one of the many signs that autumn has arrived.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LugCgVeVta0/VFOw3mXlwlI/AAAAAAAALWs/0zKkE1IjS3Y/s1600/witch-hazel%2Bflowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LugCgVeVta0/VFOw3mXlwlI/AAAAAAAALWs/0zKkE1IjS3Y/s1600/witch-hazel%2Bflowers.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The yellow spider like petals of <b>Witch-hazel</b>, <i>Hamamelis viriginiana</i>, bloom in October. While all other plants are going dormant for the winter, Witch-hazel is flowering all by its lonesome. That's because it has a spell on it. A witch cursed it you see. Of course if you sit under a Witch-hazel, you will be safe from witches. If you break off a Y shaped branch, it will chase evil witches away. That same Y shaped branch will not only locate water for you, but gold, silver, and every other precious metal. Yes, and I'm really Brad Pitt. Don't you just love folklore.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PW_vf3AC_jI/VDxhGpmBuSI/AAAAAAAALQU/YBv_WlmcPpI/s1600/coralberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PW_vf3AC_jI/VDxhGpmBuSI/AAAAAAAALQU/YBv_WlmcPpI/s1600/coralberry.jpg" height="293" width="400" /></a></div><b>Coralberry</b>, <i>Symphoricarpos orbiculatus</i>. A native shrub with bright magenta fruit. Where you find one, you may find others. They form thickets by sending up root sprouts. Coralberry is often used in landscaping.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hmRZkm5o8Uk/VDxiTUBEM9I/AAAAAAAALQc/_H_IBO_IhH8/s1600/ml%2Bviburnum%2Bleaf%2Bfruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hmRZkm5o8Uk/VDxiTUBEM9I/AAAAAAAALQc/_H_IBO_IhH8/s1600/ml%2Bviburnum%2Bleaf%2Bfruit.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sKdrn7Zzhvo/VDxiastDm5I/AAAAAAAALQk/2z_fIaRFxEQ/s1600/ml%2Bviburnum%2Bpink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sKdrn7Zzhvo/VDxiastDm5I/AAAAAAAALQk/2z_fIaRFxEQ/s1600/ml%2Bviburnum%2Bpink.jpg" height="343" width="400" /></a></div>Speaking of landscaping, I often advocate "plant native species". Viburnums are an excellent choice. Not only do many of them have showy flowers, great for attracting butterflies, but the fruit provides an important food source for winter birds. This one is <b>Maple-leaf Viburnum</b>, <i>Viburnum acerifolium</i>. The leaves turn a brilliant pink in October.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y-W0hoX2Iuk/VD2Wd8qwOlI/AAAAAAAALQ0/kuQpHTsW2nY/s1600/tuliptree%2Bsilk%2Bcocoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y-W0hoX2Iuk/VD2Wd8qwOlI/AAAAAAAALQ0/kuQpHTsW2nY/s1600/tuliptree%2Bsilk%2Bcocoon.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>What about more caterpillars? I'm afraid they are finding cover on the ground for the winter. Others have pupated or spun silken cocoons like this <b>Tulip-tree Silk Moth</b>, <i>Callosamia angulifera</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xfKS71EERQ0/VD2YaB2-kDI/AAAAAAAALRA/HtmoEhv2ZS0/s1600/blue-stemmed%2Bgoldenrod%2BS.%2Bcaesia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xfKS71EERQ0/VD2YaB2-kDI/AAAAAAAALRA/HtmoEhv2ZS0/s1600/blue-stemmed%2Bgoldenrod%2BS.%2Bcaesia.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>What about wildflowers? There may be a few more still in open fields, but in the forest they are few and far between. Barely hanging on in mid October was this <b>Blue-stemmed Goldenrod</b>, <i>Solidago caesia</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9I7LzkCf5bA/VD2ZKEfPcSI/AAAAAAAALRI/Ozffr49uZ9s/s1600/crooked-stem%2Baster%2BS.%2Bprenanthoides.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9I7LzkCf5bA/VD2ZKEfPcSI/AAAAAAAALRI/Ozffr49uZ9s/s1600/crooked-stem%2Baster%2BS.%2Bprenanthoides.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>If you find anything this late, it is probably the asters. I posted on a bunch of them a couple years ago, right&nbsp;<a href="http://fieldbioinohio.blogspot.com/2011/11/some-ohio-asters.html" target="_blank">here</a>, but I like to keep in practice. I'm still hoping an expert will go over my collection of species. This medium sized flower belongs to the <b>Crooked-stem Aster</b>, <i>Symphyotrichum prenanthoides</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yHdOYA976Zw/VD2aewFG5YI/AAAAAAAALRU/gbHPz_CRbIA/s1600/crooked-stem%2Baster%2Bleaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yHdOYA976Zw/VD2aewFG5YI/AAAAAAAALRU/gbHPz_CRbIA/s1600/crooked-stem%2Baster%2Bleaves.jpg" height="262" width="400" /></a></div>It can be identified by the <u>long clasping </u>leaves. Wherever the leaves clasp, the stem grows crooked. It's one of our most common species in moist woodlands.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vWnoRJu44dk/VD2a7Uma4AI/AAAAAAAALRc/c1UXn2nVfWU/s1600/panicled%2Baster%2BS.%2Blanceolatum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vWnoRJu44dk/VD2a7Uma4AI/AAAAAAAALRc/c1UXn2nVfWU/s1600/panicled%2Baster%2BS.%2Blanceolatum.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Panicled Aster</b>, <i>Symphyotrichum lanceolatum</i>, is a white flowering species that can be showy when first blooming. Flowers are few and scattered late in October. Panicled Aster can be recognized by the long willow like leaves interspersed among bunches of shorter leafy shoots.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XgldKUX_PaA/VD2cspBSbhI/AAAAAAAALRo/HS88SzixwmA/s1600/White-wood%2Baster%2Bbloom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XgldKUX_PaA/VD2cspBSbhI/AAAAAAAALRo/HS88SzixwmA/s1600/White-wood%2Baster%2Bbloom.jpg" height="238" width="400" /></a></div>One that remains tough for me to figure out for sure is the <b>White Wood Aster</b>, <i>Eurybia divaricata</i>. The flowers are smaller than the previous two, and with a slight lavender tinge. Except for the few most upper leaves, which are winged, the majority of the leaves are long stalked. The teeth are large but remain close to the leaf margin. If this is all you examine, it does look a bit like Heart-leaved Aster.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gVzHigE5gl8/VD2eNBIqvjI/AAAAAAAALR0/FDkdae0gYHs/s1600/White-wood%2Baster%2Bleaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gVzHigE5gl8/VD2eNBIqvjI/AAAAAAAALR0/FDkdae0gYHs/s1600/White-wood%2Baster%2Bleaves.jpg" height="270" width="400" /></a></div>Take a closer look at the lower leaves. Here the teeth appear sharper and <u>spread outward</u>. In profile, it almost has the look of certain grape leaves.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u2ULSoC7zZc/VD2hRryk3-I/AAAAAAAALSA/uY0T7t7tjxc/s1600/Wavy-leaved%2Baster%2BSymphyotrichum%2Bundulatum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u2ULSoC7zZc/VD2hRryk3-I/AAAAAAAALSA/uY0T7t7tjxc/s1600/Wavy-leaved%2Baster%2BSymphyotrichum%2Bundulatum.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>This light blue species is rather attractive, and the flower clusters are more elongated than flat topped. Don't forget to check the leaves for identification.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9A3HSGBNqsU/VD2hmHwbNDI/AAAAAAAALSI/24_Q99w4F0c/s1600/Wavy-leaved%2Baster%2Bclasping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9A3HSGBNqsU/VD2hmHwbNDI/AAAAAAAALSI/24_Q99w4F0c/s1600/Wavy-leaved%2Baster%2Bclasping.jpg" height="337" width="400" /></a></div>The upper leaves are knife shaped, and clasp the stem.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C11BwgYy6i4/VD2hzcN4gxI/AAAAAAAALSQ/eEH8LcP7URI/s1600/Wavy-leaved%2Baster%2C%2Bmiddle%2Bleaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C11BwgYy6i4/VD2hzcN4gxI/AAAAAAAALSQ/eEH8LcP7URI/s1600/Wavy-leaved%2Baster%2C%2Bmiddle%2Bleaves.jpg" height="327" width="400" /></a></div>Further down, the leaves start to narrow out and form a winged petiole.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FbBkrUI8qmQ/VD2iFVcDJRI/AAAAAAAALSY/ZZCoibpZw0I/s1600/Wavy-leaved%2Baster%2Bclasping%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FbBkrUI8qmQ/VD2iFVcDJRI/AAAAAAAALSY/ZZCoibpZw0I/s1600/Wavy-leaved%2Baster%2Bclasping%2B2.jpg" height="280" width="400" /></a></div>Near the bottom, the leaves may be larger, but still show a narrow petiole, then widening into a wing at the stem. The variability of these leaves make identification tougher, not easier in my opinion. This is <b>Wavy-leaved Aster</b>, <i>Symphyotrichum undulatum</i>. A species of dry upland woods that still blooms into late October.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kRrV7aKaY9I/VFOy2cICIiI/AAAAAAAALW4/wgTULISxiv0/s1600/pin%2Boak%2B120%2Bft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kRrV7aKaY9I/VFOy2cICIiI/AAAAAAAALW4/wgTULISxiv0/s1600/pin%2Boak%2B120%2Bft.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>On a side note, I went out with the forest soils class back in September. Jerry and Dave from OSU Extension joined us to examine bottomland forests. I have spent many years in Zaleski, including right around the corner from here. Who would have thought, just a stones throw away was this woods full of monsters. Many large <b>Swamp White Oaks</b> <i>Quercus bicolor</i>, and <b>Pin Oaks</b>, <i>Quercus palustris</i> dotted the area. No big deal in northern Ohio, but down here it's exceptional. We cored and measured some. This Pin Oak is over 100 years old, has a 45 inch DBH, and is 120 feet tall. I can't wait to explore this area for potential vernal pools come spring.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-84477595234461998892014-10-21T11:51:00.000-04:002015-01-14T16:00:14.823-05:00A Fall Insect Walk (and more caterpillars!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dUQHrH6-0MQ/VD2nuIcjjBI/AAAAAAAALSo/YnWSmbRNeJQ/s1600/green%2Bstink%2Bbug%2Bface.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dUQHrH6-0MQ/VD2nuIcjjBI/AAAAAAAALSo/YnWSmbRNeJQ/s1600/green%2Bstink%2Bbug%2Bface.jpg" height="302" width="400" /></a></div>"Is this guy going to drive me buggy with another insect talk"? Yeeesssss!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k-w_nhsiCuI/VD2oDzJk6rI/AAAAAAAALSw/AndhNqXA0IM/s1600/rough%2Bstink%2Bbug%2Bhead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k-w_nhsiCuI/VD2oDzJk6rI/AAAAAAAALSw/AndhNqXA0IM/s1600/rough%2Bstink%2Bbug%2Bhead.jpg" height="330" width="400" /></a></div>"What's with all this in-your-face stuff"?&nbsp;This is one of our native brown stinks known as the&nbsp;<b>Rough Stink Bug</b>, Brochymena or&nbsp;<i>Parabrochymena arborea.</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-47XgmaBCaEw/VD2oRFOZElI/AAAAAAAALS4/TAihoVVZCuU/s1600/rough%2Bstink%2Bbug%2BBrochymena%2Barborea%2BParabrochymena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-47XgmaBCaEw/VD2oRFOZElI/AAAAAAAALS4/TAihoVVZCuU/s1600/rough%2Bstink%2Bbug%2BBrochymena%2Barborea%2BParabrochymena.jpg" height="317" width="400" /></a></div>Unlike the smooth Green Stink Bugs, the body of this one is bumpy. The ends of the wings have bleeding black veins. Check out the armor on the thorax and head region. While some Stink Bugs stick to feeding on plant juices, this one is a predator, seeking out other tasty insects. It's most commonly found camouflaged on trees with brownish bark and twigs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ghFbyCrhEws/VD2rSCQ6ioI/AAAAAAAALTE/VtvSi_Xorqc/s1600/stink%2Bbug%2Bimm%2BPodisus%2Bmaculiventris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ghFbyCrhEws/VD2rSCQ6ioI/AAAAAAAALTE/VtvSi_Xorqc/s1600/stink%2Bbug%2Bimm%2BPodisus%2Bmaculiventris.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>Sticking with 'the bugs', I usually don't mess with immatures. They are often tough to figure out, and completely change as adults. This one can be identified by the black and red pattern of the abdomen, along with the yellow spots on the head and thorax. It is known as <i>Podisus maculiventris</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mF3D8kNlIjg/VD2skqhtoCI/AAAAAAAALTQ/YkGyGHy_ELk/s1600/walkin%2Bstick%2Bbrown%2Bfemale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mF3D8kNlIjg/VD2skqhtoCI/AAAAAAAALTQ/YkGyGHy_ELk/s1600/walkin%2Bstick%2Bbrown%2Bfemale.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>A mature female of the <b>Northern Walking Stick</b>, <i>Diapheromera femorata</i>. They can be dark brown, tan, green, or a mixture of colors.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFMuT9RyJEc/VD2tEHCGY9I/AAAAAAAALTY/4EMQq3YeOD4/s1600/walking%2Bstick%2Bskinny%2Bmale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFMuT9RyJEc/VD2tEHCGY9I/AAAAAAAALTY/4EMQq3YeOD4/s1600/walking%2Bstick%2Bskinny%2Bmale.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></div>The smaller and skinnier male waiting on a female.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8a9xDGWMQc/VD2tXGj-k6I/AAAAAAAALTg/4Rgfvtiv_YY/s1600/walking%2Bsticks%2Bmated%2Bpair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8a9xDGWMQc/VD2tXGj-k6I/AAAAAAAALTg/4Rgfvtiv_YY/s1600/walking%2Bsticks%2Bmated%2Bpair.jpg" height="321" width="400" /></a></div>Somebody got lucky. There is more than Red Maple in the picture. Look for a mated pair.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E4ms1xdGr0s/VD7HikK1OJI/AAAAAAAALTw/khrQWxWEBnI/s1600/scorpionfly%2Bfemale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E4ms1xdGr0s/VD7HikK1OJI/AAAAAAAALTw/khrQWxWEBnI/s1600/scorpionfly%2Bfemale.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div>A female <b>Scorpionfly</b> basks in the sun. These woodland insects are still flying in September and October. I once thought about taking all the Scorpionflies to species, until I read the keys. It is mostly based on genitalia dissection. People have tried to use the wing patterns for determination as well. The latest I read on this, the whole group needs revision, including using the mottled wings. So much for that task.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KUIeqKmMcAY/VD7ITo_UOhI/AAAAAAAALT4/HBWpWoW8CNM/s1600/scorpionfly%2Bsnout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KUIeqKmMcAY/VD7ITo_UOhI/AAAAAAAALT4/HBWpWoW8CNM/s1600/scorpionfly%2Bsnout.jpg" height="291" width="400" /></a></div>The appearance of comb like teeth on the front of the mouth are just the arrangement of the <i>palps</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DwE7UgnUpAA/VD7JSxEZLNI/AAAAAAAALUE/oA2ZfpYerXo/s1600/narrow-winged%2Btree%2Bcrick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DwE7UgnUpAA/VD7JSxEZLNI/AAAAAAAALUE/oA2ZfpYerXo/s1600/narrow-winged%2Btree%2Bcrick.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>This pale looking Orthoptera is one of the Tree Crickets. I have been trying to gather a list of how many are in Ohio. I'm up to a dozen, but I don't have much in the way of references to go by. There are people in Ohio who study the sounds of this group, and I probably need to get with them. Like Field Crickets and Katydids, they are best identified by their calls.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0vQfHxY2FkE/VD7J-JPXqYI/AAAAAAAALUM/_Ei7FSu8uwM/s1600/narrow%2Bwinged%2Btree%2Bcricket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0vQfHxY2FkE/VD7J-JPXqYI/AAAAAAAALUM/_Ei7FSu8uwM/s1600/narrow%2Bwinged%2Btree%2Bcricket.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>There are some morphological characters you can look for. This is the <b>Narrow-winged Tree Cricket</b>, <i>Oecanthus niveus</i>. In this species there is an orange mark on the top of the head. It sometimes may bleed into the thorax. MOST importantly when figuring these to the species level, you have to see the black marks on the base of the antennae.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-USamI1h5BF0/VD7Lubcw6RI/AAAAAAAALUY/oa3-oHWixhI/s1600/narrow%2Bwinged%2Bantennae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-USamI1h5BF0/VD7Lubcw6RI/AAAAAAAALUY/oa3-oHWixhI/s1600/narrow%2Bwinged%2Bantennae.jpg" height="318" width="400" /></a></div>I really had to crop this picture in order to see that feature. On the first antennal segment, the mark is <b>J </b>shaped. I examined the specimen under a scope to be sure. This species is common state wide. Many Tree Crickets have very fast songs, some are long trills, and quite different than our more familiar black cricket calls.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1hmYfWhNjw/VD7PzovBxkI/AAAAAAAALUk/K5aDSD1bztg/s1600/Phosphila%2Bturbulenta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1hmYfWhNjw/VD7PzovBxkI/AAAAAAAALUk/K5aDSD1bztg/s1600/Phosphila%2Bturbulenta.jpg" height="400" width="230" /></a></div><i>Phosphila turbulenta</i>. Turn that around and you have the common name, the <b>Turbulent Phosphila</b>. These caterpillars appear to have two heads. The rear end is black and white spotted. The actual head end has a Batman silhouette on the thorax. These striped caterpillars usually feed in groups, skeletonizing and defoliating types of Greenbriers (Smilax). The adult moth is rather dull in comparison.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5wsIp8WxEKs/VD7RX-zAuyI/AAAAAAAALUw/VsSoSG0gz8c/s1600/crowned%2Bslug%2Bpale%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5wsIp8WxEKs/VD7RX-zAuyI/AAAAAAAALUw/VsSoSG0gz8c/s1600/crowned%2Bslug%2Bpale%2Bclose.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Crowned Slug</b>, <i>Isa textula</i>. This cat is usually much more green and red. I had never seen one so pale. The dark patches make it appear to be decomposing. Sure enough, upon probing it, it was dead. It's sitting on one of its major food plants, oak, so maybe it was parasitized.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ffyoAidarc/VD7TIaK_TpI/AAAAAAAALU8/ou83ZDdH8TA/s1600/mottled%2Bprominent%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ffyoAidarc/VD7TIaK_TpI/AAAAAAAALU8/ou83ZDdH8TA/s1600/mottled%2Bprominent%2B2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>A FAT caterpillar. So fat in fact, the legs and prolegs remain hidden far underneath. The red stripe on the back is sometimes only pale yellow. At first sight it appeared to have a single tail or horn, and with those yellow streaks on the side, I thought, maybe a Sphinx Moth. It happens to be the <b>Mottled Prominent</b>, <i>Macrurocampa marthesia, </i>a Notodontidae<i>.</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hsOF9smcccQ/VD7USenEa9I/AAAAAAAALVE/rjz8-wn_FzI/s1600/mottled%2Bprominent%2Bhead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hsOF9smcccQ/VD7USenEa9I/AAAAAAAALVE/rjz8-wn_FzI/s1600/mottled%2Bprominent%2Bhead.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>First, look at the head. A yellow-red knob is evident above a mottled pink face.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tl4D80KHpnU/VD7UppkAEaI/AAAAAAAALVM/VKAqftWAw6Q/s1600/mottled%2Bprominent%2Btails.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tl4D80KHpnU/VD7UppkAEaI/AAAAAAAALVM/VKAqftWAw6Q/s1600/mottled%2Bprominent%2Btails.jpg" height="301" width="400" /></a></div>As it began moving around, I could see it didn't have a low riding horn, but two separate long tails instead.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-asOSfo1OXnE/VD7WBvbCQaI/AAAAAAAALVY/R9ygi1pD4BE/s1600/elderberry%2Bleafroller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-asOSfo1OXnE/VD7WBvbCQaI/AAAAAAAALVY/R9ygi1pD4BE/s1600/elderberry%2Bleafroller.jpg" height="400" width="318" /></a></div>A small unknown caterpillar is busy spinning silk between two sides of a leaf. As the silk tightens, the leaf will fold over, close, and form a little tunnel for the larva.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ruRPm0Qq6-Q/VD7WZriH3uI/AAAAAAAALVg/j5Y5AMbtJ8Q/s1600/raspberry%2Bleafroller%2Bin%2Bhand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ruRPm0Qq6-Q/VD7WZriH3uI/AAAAAAAALVg/j5Y5AMbtJ8Q/s1600/raspberry%2Bleafroller%2Bin%2Bhand.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>Here is one in hand. An orange head and collar, pin prick spots down the back, and small hairs out the side. Are they both the same species? It would appear so, but you have to rear them out to be sure. One was on Elderberry (Sambucus), the other on Raspberry (Rubus). These are <b>Leaf-roller Moths</b> in the family Tortricidae.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dILIjUBR7GU/VD7XcbVoLKI/AAAAAAAALVs/qs7dCUPVU6I/s1600/Green%2BLacewing%2Beggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dILIjUBR7GU/VD7XcbVoLKI/AAAAAAAALVs/qs7dCUPVU6I/s1600/Green%2BLacewing%2Beggs.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div>There are a lot of interesting things in the field of natural history. Some are down right amazing or awesome, and I don't use those words very often. Certain things catch my eye more than others, this is one of them. It's an egg cluster from one of the <b>Green Lacewings </b>(Neuroptera). The individual eggs are white, and suspended on long silken threads to keep them away from predators.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IDxvgG0pf7U/VEZ5SSK1nOI/AAAAAAAALV8/FsHHEvDygZs/s1600/lacewing%2Blarva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IDxvgG0pf7U/VEZ5SSK1nOI/AAAAAAAALV8/FsHHEvDygZs/s1600/lacewing%2Blarva.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Lacewing eggs are usually laid in close proximity to Aphid populations, their favorite food. Many larvae will take pieces of lichen and moss and attach them to the hairs of the body, thus remaining hidden. For some excellent closeups of these critters, check out the recent post by Jim McCormac right&nbsp;<a href="http://jimmccormac.blogspot.com/2014/10/a-murderous-mobile-lichen.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ji3sF-HUs0/VEZ6xQA_unI/AAAAAAAALWI/3b3COfFjWzs/s1600/lacewing%2Bimmature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ji3sF-HUs0/VEZ6xQA_unI/AAAAAAAALWI/3b3COfFjWzs/s1600/lacewing%2Bimmature.jpg" height="346" width="400" /></a></div>Diane Brooks and I came across this insect while at a workshop in September. It's not a good photo, but I stuck it in so you could see the outline.&nbsp;When Richard Bradley is pointing out spiders on a walk, you don't want to miss anything, so I was in a hurry. It looks a bit like a Rove Beetle, Stonefly, or even an oversized Thrips. This is another immature Lacewing, one which hunts openly, without any camouflage. It may be a Hemerobid family member, the Brown Lacewings. When practicing Integrated Pest Management, Lacewings are an excellent natural or Biological Control for gardeners and nursery growers.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-46510758203882737442014-10-10T19:46:00.000-04:002014-10-10T19:46:45.203-04:00Maples of Ohio<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yoCH6PzoR5w/VCg8JKDbIlI/AAAAAAAALHg/rny-twJ146Y/s1600/red%2Bmaple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yoCH6PzoR5w/VCg8JKDbIlI/AAAAAAAALHg/rny-twJ146Y/s1600/red%2Bmaple.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>With the historical demise of the American &amp; Red Elm due to Dutch Elm Disease, and the recent decline of Ash in Ohio, Maples remain some of the most commonly used shade trees in ornamental landscaping. Both native and introduced species are planted. With few exceptions, maples are simple leaved, and have this general shape.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1y8WFg6EU4/VCg9J97fvfI/AAAAAAAALHo/UcCShO9g3f0/s1600/maple%2Bfruit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1y8WFg6EU4/VCg9J97fvfI/AAAAAAAALHo/UcCShO9g3f0/s1600/maple%2Bfruit.JPG" height="396" width="400" /></a></div>The fruit we often call helicopters or twirlybirds, are known as <i>samaras</i>, a dry winged seed. Single samaras are the fruit type of Tulip, Elm, and Ash. Some botanists think they should be called something else in the maples, because they are in pairs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYSvJqy8ZEo/VCg92p3u2KI/AAAAAAAALHw/1SMZC8F-o-8/s1600/red%2Bmaple%2Bflowers%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYSvJqy8ZEo/VCg92p3u2KI/AAAAAAAALHw/1SMZC8F-o-8/s1600/red%2Bmaple%2Bflowers%2B3.jpg" height="375" width="400" /></a></div>Maples flower in a couple of different ways, the most common is this <i>umbel </i>form. The stamens being much larger than the petals beneath. This is Red Maple.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hIP3ESKWQCI/VCg-h4jtbaI/AAAAAAAALH8/XjxiWpPlqcw/s1600/red%2Bmaple%2Bleaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hIP3ESKWQCI/VCg-h4jtbaI/AAAAAAAALH8/XjxiWpPlqcw/s1600/red%2Bmaple%2Bleaf.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Red Maple</b>, <i>Acer rubrum</i>, is one of our most common species, occurring in any habitat type. After a disturbance, Red Maple can quickly dominate an area. The leaf margins are heavily toothed or <i>serrated</i>. The sinuses are shallow to medium in depth. The main sinus in the middle bottoms out in a sharp V shape, and there are teeth all the way down that sinus.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jxw3QM6iqEA/VCg_tGbn8WI/AAAAAAAALIE/nFfqSAxYzYQ/s1600/red%2Bmaple%2Bunder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jxw3QM6iqEA/VCg_tGbn8WI/AAAAAAAALIE/nFfqSAxYzYQ/s1600/red%2Bmaple%2Bunder.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Red Maples have a pale white look to their undersides.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ChGYMrHA0Pg/VCg_6fQXVeI/AAAAAAAALIM/5WA4Hieh5lM/s1600/red%2Bmaple%2Bturning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ChGYMrHA0Pg/VCg_6fQXVeI/AAAAAAAALIM/5WA4Hieh5lM/s1600/red%2Bmaple%2Bturning.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>They turn a brilliant array of colors, and definitely add to our fall landscape.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nBk-KIejZU4/VChAaoHIcWI/AAAAAAAALIU/8oPp8_u4X5k/s1600/red%2Bmaple%2Bbud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nBk-KIejZU4/VChAaoHIcWI/AAAAAAAALIU/8oPp8_u4X5k/s1600/red%2Bmaple%2Bbud.jpg" height="400" width="386" /></a></div>Red Maple twigs and buds also turn red for the fall and winter.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMw-g__Bo7g/VChBJsHs_WI/AAAAAAAALIg/5a9cmwy--0A/s1600/silver%2Bmaple%2Bleaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMw-g__Bo7g/VChBJsHs_WI/AAAAAAAALIg/5a9cmwy--0A/s1600/silver%2Bmaple%2Bleaf.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Silver Maple</b>, <i>Acer saccharinum,</i> is very similar to Red. In the case of the leaf, there are also many teeth on the margin. The main sinus on Silver is VERY deep when compared to Red. It tends to be more rounded or U shaped, and there are very few to no teeth in the sinus bottom.<br /><br />Think of the lobes and sinuses this way; you don't have to cut your finger very deep to draw Red blood, but you have to 'mine deep' into the earth to find Silver.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U3Lu1Z5PiyQ/VChCWxrbtsI/AAAAAAAALIo/aG6ExsuAnME/s1600/silver%2Bmaple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U3Lu1Z5PiyQ/VChCWxrbtsI/AAAAAAAALIo/aG6ExsuAnME/s1600/silver%2Bmaple.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Silver Maple leaves are not pale white below, but bright white or silvery. I mentioned Red could be found anywhere, from swamps to hill tops. Silver on the other hand HAS to keep its feet wet. It is found in bottomland forests and floodplains. Silver was once popular in landscaping, until home owners found out the roots will break your water lines. When planted in yards, Silver has the habit of multi-trunking, and eventually falling on your house.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W91cbIC924k/VChDlw08bLI/AAAAAAAALI0/H9KoGyq0D3Y/s1600/silver%2Bmaple%2Bbark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W91cbIC924k/VChDlw08bLI/AAAAAAAALI0/H9KoGyq0D3Y/s1600/silver%2Bmaple%2Bbark.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Silver and Red have nearly identical bark. Both start out looking smooth and gray, but with age will furrow and flake like the one on the left.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VWthY6qCJI8/VChFm32flbI/AAAAAAAALJI/fS5A1QaFYFA/s1600/silver%2Bmaple%2Bbud2%2Barrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VWthY6qCJI8/VChFm32flbI/AAAAAAAALJI/fS5A1QaFYFA/s1600/silver%2Bmaple%2Bbud2%2Barrow.jpg" height="346" width="400" /></a></div>Like Red, Silver buds and twigs also turn reddish for the winter. The bud scales on Red end in a sharp point. On Silver, those bud scales appear to have an EXTRA point, or <u>mucronate tip</u>, making them look even sharper. You can't see this character without a hand lens, so sometimes the best way to tell which you have in a bottomland (during winter) is to look for old leaves.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wdR0v5r9uZY/VChNfrVSyUI/AAAAAAAALJg/YBCMToP1z_g/s1600/sugar%2Bmaple%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wdR0v5r9uZY/VChNfrVSyUI/AAAAAAAALJg/YBCMToP1z_g/s1600/sugar%2Bmaple%2B2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a79yds3HBso/VChNZU5BfeI/AAAAAAAALJY/Hbp4dkMflj0/s1600/sugar%2Bmaple%2Bleaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a79yds3HBso/VChNZU5BfeI/AAAAAAAALJY/Hbp4dkMflj0/s1600/sugar%2Bmaple%2Bleaves.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Sugar Maple</b>, <i>Acer saccharum</i>. Sugar is by far one of the most dominant trees of forests in the eastern U.S. and Canada. It is an important species, both economically and ecologically. Look at the leaf margins. There are less teeth than Silver and Red. As the old saying goes, if you eat too much sugar, you lose your teeth. The shape is the symbol on the Canadian flag.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqywOTqf2oA/VChO8Yj2pHI/AAAAAAAALJs/iFlg-3ps0jw/s1600/sugar%2Bmaple%2Bbud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqywOTqf2oA/VChO8Yj2pHI/AAAAAAAALJs/iFlg-3ps0jw/s1600/sugar%2Bmaple%2Bbud.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Sugar maple buds have more scales than Red or Silver, and are much more spear like. The new growth twigs and buds are both brown, (think brown sugar).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vzBXM_n3T7s/VChP7h5sZpI/AAAAAAAALJ0/Z2ts16SWqJU/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vzBXM_n3T7s/VChP7h5sZpI/AAAAAAAALJ0/Z2ts16SWqJU/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bclose.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Similar to Sugar Maple is the <b>Black Maple</b>, <i>Acer nigrum</i>. At first glance they may look identical. Some botanists have now lumped Black as simply a <i>variety</i> of Sugar. Not all biologists have bought into this yet, but I will discuss more on that at the end of this post.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qBG0svnbprI/VChQ9HIaaPI/AAAAAAAALJ8/V2Pow1b6RsA/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bunder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qBG0svnbprI/VChQ9HIaaPI/AAAAAAAALJ8/V2Pow1b6RsA/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bunder.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Sugar and Black lack any white under the leaves, so they can't be confused with Red and Silver. Black may sometimes have a slight peach-fuzz texture to the undersides.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ATDw6e_Cpo/VChRRh1PUQI/AAAAAAAALKE/jl1m1XPkbqk/s1600/black%2Bmaple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ATDw6e_Cpo/VChRRh1PUQI/AAAAAAAALKE/jl1m1XPkbqk/s1600/black%2Bmaple.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Here are some of the old and unreliable methods of identifying Black Maple. On some leaves, the petiole appears to be popping out from <u>inside </u>the leaf. This is an optical illusion.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NTxma3MFAtQ/VChRrTrp2BI/AAAAAAAALKM/CokUbWpQOnU/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bdroop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NTxma3MFAtQ/VChRrTrp2BI/AAAAAAAALKM/CokUbWpQOnU/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bdroop.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Others will tell you that Black Maple lobes droop over, while Sugar grows more erect.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OSy2N-mz8nY/VChR8dQq4pI/AAAAAAAALKU/bWUXyHqOGTs/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Blobes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OSy2N-mz8nY/VChR8dQq4pI/AAAAAAAALKU/bWUXyHqOGTs/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Blobes.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Another thing you could say about Black is that it has less lobes and teeth when compared to Sugar. Remember, if you eat too much Sugar, you lose your teeth. If you KEEP eating sugar, your teeth turn <u>Black</u>, and you lose even more. All of these methods work, sometimes. So what makes Black Maple distinct?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DXR6ifUvG7s/VChSxR5uL5I/AAAAAAAALKc/5w6JT9JaMDo/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bstipules%2Bon%2Btwig%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DXR6ifUvG7s/VChSxR5uL5I/AAAAAAAALKc/5w6JT9JaMDo/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bstipules%2Bon%2Btwig%2B2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Look where the leaf attaches to the twig. Black Maple, and ONLY Black, shows leaf like <i>stipules</i> growing out of the petiole base.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xkExobX5euU/VChTHYuVTxI/AAAAAAAALKk/eDqQip3MASk/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bstipule%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xkExobX5euU/VChTHYuVTxI/AAAAAAAALKk/eDqQip3MASk/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bstipule%2Bclose.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div>They may be large, like the previous picture, or very small, sometimes only visible when the leaf is detached from the twig.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wbcdJ4N14QM/VChTYCU_WWI/AAAAAAAALKs/b4JTob6ApUY/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bbuds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wbcdJ4N14QM/VChTYCU_WWI/AAAAAAAALKs/b4JTob6ApUY/s1600/black%2Bmaple%2Bbuds.jpg" height="347" width="400" /></a></div>In winter, the buds are dark brown to black, and the new growth twig is <b>light gray</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qceWu34kgWk/VDhej8whMlI/AAAAAAAALPg/BSI9MMviBM4/s1600/sugar%2Bmaple%2Bbark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qceWu34kgWk/VDhej8whMlI/AAAAAAAALPg/BSI9MMviBM4/s1600/sugar%2Bmaple%2Bbark.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>The bark of Sugar and Black is also gray, but covered with bumps, and NOT smooth like young Silver and Red.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_jS6Ukz7xQ/VChUZ3AFJxI/AAAAAAAALK4/A-05E1FwPHQ/s1600/box%2Belder.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_jS6Ukz7xQ/VChUZ3AFJxI/AAAAAAAALK4/A-05E1FwPHQ/s1600/box%2Belder.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HdaE-609WyE/VChUiqNQd-I/AAAAAAAALLA/4NhX1ZvyQUA/s1600/box-elder%2Bleaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HdaE-609WyE/VChUiqNQd-I/AAAAAAAALLA/4NhX1ZvyQUA/s1600/box-elder%2Bleaves.jpg" height="332" width="400" /></a></div><b>Box-elder Maple,</b> <i>Acer negundo</i>, is the odd member of the group. Not only is it compound leaved, but the species is <i>dioecious</i>, meaning the trees are either a male or female only. Leaflets are commonly five, sometimes even seven. New growth twigs may only have three, and resemble Poison Ivy. Because of the opposite compound arrangement, an old name was <b>Ash-leaf Maple</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MS9YbHMjgfo/VChWAysecRI/AAAAAAAALLM/z8LDbqpHF5s/s1600/Acer%2Bnegundo%2Bfruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MS9YbHMjgfo/VChWAysecRI/AAAAAAAALLM/z8LDbqpHF5s/s1600/Acer%2Bnegundo%2Bfruit.jpg" height="352" width="400" /></a></div>Box-elder fruit is not clustered, but hangs down and has a more <i>raceme</i> like look. In a natural setting, all our maples produce fruit in the spring. Most species drop their fruit early, but Box-elder will retain its fruit well through winter.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6AJEK6pVf3E/VChXRQKb9qI/AAAAAAAALLU/fwtKuFTur7Y/s1600/box%2Belder%2Bbuds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6AJEK6pVf3E/VChXRQKb9qI/AAAAAAAALLU/fwtKuFTur7Y/s1600/box%2Belder%2Bbuds.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Winter ID is easy. The twigs are smooth and bright green. The buds are few scaled with a pink base color. White silky hairs protrude from each scale. The buds are also much more blunt than other maples. Lets compare the winter twigs. Red and Silver are red, Sugar is brown, Black is gray, and Box-elder is green.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eIWKH2Pmxho/VChYJwtdVgI/AAAAAAAALLc/dzxS2BVdAlQ/s1600/Acer%2Bnegundo%2Bbark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eIWKH2Pmxho/VChYJwtdVgI/AAAAAAAALLc/dzxS2BVdAlQ/s1600/Acer%2Bnegundo%2Bbark.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>Box-elder bark is gray to light brown. It furrows much earlier than other species. Branch sprouts occur much more often than other maples.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ciYjX9-NR-s/VChYsH3wL3I/AAAAAAAALLo/jDcISvHJmGE/s1600/striped%2Bmaple%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ciYjX9-NR-s/VChYsH3wL3I/AAAAAAAALLo/jDcISvHJmGE/s1600/striped%2Bmaple%2B1.JPG" height="280" width="400" /></a></div><b>Striped Maple</b>, <i>Acer pensylvanicum</i>, is a rare species in Ohio. Its broad leaves have three shallow lobes, and the margin contains LOTS of small teeth, many more than any of our others.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ttmByHyGC4/VChZaDiuauI/AAAAAAAALLw/ohMwql9-QDQ/s1600/striped%2Bmaple%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ttmByHyGC4/VChZaDiuauI/AAAAAAAALLw/ohMwql9-QDQ/s1600/striped%2Bmaple%2B2.JPG" height="400" width="288" /></a>&nbsp;</div>If you're not sure about the leaves, check the bark, it is unmistakable. The green and white stripes are very striking. This is a small understory tree, never getting any bigger than a Redbud or Flowering Dogwood. As far as I know, it is restricted to the N.E. corner of the state, around Ashtabula.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WFTHMUQmarA/VCheEMyO5nI/AAAAAAAALL8/xndvRW5srbk/s1600/mountain%2Bmaple%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WFTHMUQmarA/VCheEMyO5nI/AAAAAAAALL8/xndvRW5srbk/s1600/mountain%2Bmaple%2B2.JPG" height="273" width="400" /></a></div>Another uncommon species is the <b>Mountain Maple</b>, <i>Acer spicatum</i>. The leaf shape is more like that of Red, but the teeth are all about the same size throughout the margin, and are course. It is found primarily in the N.E. portion of the state, but there are scattered records through other unglaciated portions of the state.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JRE-AUn8tfw/VChfJXSKMDI/AAAAAAAALME/7LD4UlD0PTg/s1600/mountain%2Bmaple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JRE-AUn8tfw/VChfJXSKMDI/AAAAAAAALME/7LD4UlD0PTg/s1600/mountain%2Bmaple.JPG" height="262" width="400" /></a></div>One of the easiest ways to recognize it is during blooming time. Mountain has erect yellow flowers often called candles. Like Striped, this is a small growing species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IzPbUC9bNPg/VChhXRJvNFI/AAAAAAAALMQ/vh4lIs_KEmo/s1600/jap%2Bstar%2Bmaple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IzPbUC9bNPg/VChhXRJvNFI/AAAAAAAALMQ/vh4lIs_KEmo/s1600/jap%2Bstar%2Bmaple.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h0V6Qp7porY/VChheE5fqZI/AAAAAAAALMY/W8MdrF0_VHo/s1600/Maple%2C%2BJapanese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h0V6Qp7porY/VChheE5fqZI/AAAAAAAALMY/W8MdrF0_VHo/s1600/Maple%2C%2BJapanese.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>One of the introduced species used in landscaping is the <b>Japanese Star Maple</b>, <i>Acer palmatum</i>. The latin name comes from the outward radiating leaf lobes. A lot of these are small trees or even shrubs. These are just two of the many varieties of this species. Some turn a bright red in the fall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6IPJ6Kq8enE/VChiy62doJI/AAAAAAAALMk/h6cWEx5kz8o/s1600/norway%2Bmaple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6IPJ6Kq8enE/VChiy62doJI/AAAAAAAALMk/h6cWEx5kz8o/s1600/norway%2Bmaple.JPG" height="340" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0pAmx50_lyM/VChi8iM992I/AAAAAAAALMs/ZIHjwF1nNWo/s1600/norway%2Bmaple%2Btrees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0pAmx50_lyM/VChi8iM992I/AAAAAAAALMs/ZIHjwF1nNWo/s1600/norway%2Bmaple%2Btrees.jpg" height="340" width="400" /></a></div>In every landscape, there is always one tree that stands out, either for its growth form or color. This is another introduced species commonly planted in city parks and cemeteries. One of the varieties is known as 'Crimson King'.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BJ9rKg2ap2w/VChkJ7HmLgI/AAAAAAAALM4/PM2J5bbir5w/s1600/norway%2Bblack%2Bleaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BJ9rKg2ap2w/VChkJ7HmLgI/AAAAAAAALM4/PM2J5bbir5w/s1600/norway%2Bblack%2Bleaf.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vd8Q-mvyM6s/VChkVHSZ1ZI/AAAAAAAALNA/ZXRK_tjEQHg/s1600/norway%2Bpurple%2B%26%2Bgreen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vd8Q-mvyM6s/VChkVHSZ1ZI/AAAAAAAALNA/ZXRK_tjEQHg/s1600/norway%2Bpurple%2B%26%2Bgreen.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AaJqdz70Diw/VChlJ07LCgI/AAAAAAAALNI/oN55wUQp2EA/s1600/norway%2Bwide%2Bleaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AaJqdz70Diw/VChlJ07LCgI/AAAAAAAALNI/oN55wUQp2EA/s1600/norway%2Bwide%2Bleaf.jpg" height="281" width="400" /></a></div>This is <b>Norway Maple</b>, <i>Acer platanoides</i>. The leaves can be black, purple, maroon, or green. Many trees have a combination of all those colors. The leaves are very wide, and have long pointed teeth on their lobes. The latin essentially translates to "the maple with the Sycamore like leaves".<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-391vQKTLHpg/VChmIAfQW0I/AAAAAAAALNQ/yuuQAKq35sc/s1600/norway%2Bseed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-391vQKTLHpg/VChmIAfQW0I/AAAAAAAALNQ/yuuQAKq35sc/s1600/norway%2Bseed.jpg" height="287" width="400" /></a></div>The samaras do not droop down, but grow straight out in a horizontal pattern.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ET1NjrZd2c8/VChmWxP3xKI/AAAAAAAALNY/2C6Zaut00o8/s1600/norway%2Bbud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ET1NjrZd2c8/VChmWxP3xKI/AAAAAAAALNY/2C6Zaut00o8/s1600/norway%2Bbud.jpg" height="400" width="397" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWw7v-Mnrtw/VChnp-W1ZCI/AAAAAAAALNk/ep_aQGkhhVc/s1600/norway%2Bsap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWw7v-Mnrtw/VChnp-W1ZCI/AAAAAAAALNk/ep_aQGkhhVc/s1600/norway%2Bsap.jpg" height="371" width="400" /></a></div>Norway buds are round to egg shaped, and much larger than any of our native species. If you break a twig, or pull a leaf off the branch, a white milky sap will exude. I don't know of any other maple that does this. Introduced maples are popular as ornamentals. They tend to stay where you put them, and don't become an invasive problem.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CHa2G6wum8g/VDgaOIeuh_I/AAAAAAAALN0/wRs8tZczuYI/s1600/maple%2Bleaf%2Bspot%2Bgall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CHa2G6wum8g/VDgaOIeuh_I/AAAAAAAALN0/wRs8tZczuYI/s1600/maple%2Bleaf%2Bspot%2Bgall.JPG" height="268" width="400" /></a></div>Maples can be susceptible to certain types of pests. Red bulls-eyes on a leaf is the <b>Leaf Spot Gall</b>, created by a midge, which is a fly. (USDA photo)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aScBxv3bakw/VDgbA3-CFFI/AAAAAAAALN8/c-AIuaslcM0/s1600/box-elder%2Bmites.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aScBxv3bakw/VDgbA3-CFFI/AAAAAAAALN8/c-AIuaslcM0/s1600/box-elder%2Bmites.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-458BYm7tqbk/VDgbI9hsM3I/AAAAAAAALOE/7iMFV9GZdyQ/s1600/spider%2Bmites%2Bon%2Bmaple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-458BYm7tqbk/VDgbI9hsM3I/AAAAAAAALOE/7iMFV9GZdyQ/s1600/spider%2Bmites%2Bon%2Bmaple.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Spots and raised spindle galls are caused by small Arachnids known as <b>Mites</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WWQKBWwrsNA/VDgbdJUgeHI/AAAAAAAALOM/PUw10G9VeQ0/s1600/maple%2Btar%2Bspot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WWQKBWwrsNA/VDgbdJUgeHI/AAAAAAAALOM/PUw10G9VeQ0/s1600/maple%2Btar%2Bspot.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Most of these agents don't do any real serious damage to the tree overall. I will mention that if your light colored spots like this turn solid <b>black</b>, you have what is known as <b>Maple Tar Spot</b>. This is a fungus that can cause early leaf drop.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3i_43q8XEDU/VDgcbQfHVUI/AAAAAAAALOU/Bpc2xq7iMqw/s1600/birdeye.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3i_43q8XEDU/VDgcbQfHVUI/AAAAAAAALOU/Bpc2xq7iMqw/s1600/birdeye.JPG" height="161" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PbgrNuCOAZ4/VDgcgNVKJKI/AAAAAAAALOc/hTjX-x8Da1M/s1600/birds%2Beye%2Bmaple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PbgrNuCOAZ4/VDgcgNVKJKI/AAAAAAAALOc/hTjX-x8Da1M/s1600/birds%2Beye%2Bmaple.JPG" height="231" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vEP2VaLQ0EY/VDgclsUJ2qI/AAAAAAAALOk/Nc-VUzuqlQ8/s1600/birds%2Beye%2Bduck.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vEP2VaLQ0EY/VDgclsUJ2qI/AAAAAAAALOk/Nc-VUzuqlQ8/s1600/birds%2Beye%2Bduck.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Maples are also important in the timber industry. Hard maples like Sugar and Black are economically much more desirable than the Soft maples like Red and Silver. Besides interior woodwork, the list of uses is almost endless. These above photos are of <b>Birds-eye Maple</b>, a highly sought after variety for many things.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CMkfKYStatc/VDgdkpUCTMI/AAAAAAAALOs/S6ObJ76ORVs/s1600/tiger%2Bmaple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CMkfKYStatc/VDgdkpUCTMI/AAAAAAAALOs/S6ObJ76ORVs/s1600/tiger%2Bmaple.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Wood grains like this are often referred to as <b>Curly&nbsp;Maple</b>, (but don't confuse Curly maple with Larry or Moe maple). Because of the striped appearance, it's often called <b>Tiger Maple</b>. Birds-eye, Tiger, and Curly Maple are not species of trees, but simply names applied to Sugar and Black Maples. You don't know you have these streaks and spots until the wood is milled. String instruments, gun stocks, and bedroom furniture are just some of the many uses for these, and they can be quite expensive.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E0TB_dWBEfI/VDgetD5TRsI/AAAAAAAALO0/_Td_5DOh_x8/s1600/longaberger.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E0TB_dWBEfI/VDgetD5TRsI/AAAAAAAALO0/_Td_5DOh_x8/s1600/longaberger.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Right here in Ohio we have the Longaberger Company. They use thin strips of maple wood to make baskets. These are not your run-of-the-mill cheap picnic baskets. They are highly collectible, and I've seen them sell for hundreds of dollars.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4zEJhSEHrIc/VDgfWMHGUNI/AAAAAAAALO8/P0VQWC6VWl8/s1600/syrup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4zEJhSEHrIc/VDgfWMHGUNI/AAAAAAAALO8/P0VQWC6VWl8/s1600/syrup.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>What would this group be without mentioning the Maple Syrup business. Many people make their own locally, and it's a major industry in the New England states. Sugar Maple is still the best species to tap, but you can derive syrup from any of our native species, it just takes a LOT more sap to do so.<br /><br /><br />In regards to the name changes mentioned earlier. There are botanists who still feel Black and Sugar Maple are distinct species. Geneticists, with the push of a button have eliminated the maple family as a separate entity, and have moved them (along with the Buckeye family), into the Sapindaceae. If you're going to test chloroplast DNA, then also look at nucleic and mitochondrial DNA as well, THEN tell us the names are not valid.<br /><br />The analogy a botanist friend of mine uses says it all. According to some of these people, if you have 5 basketballs, each with black stoppers (to pump air), and you have 5 footballs, 4 with purple stoppers, and one that is black, <u>that </u>football is now a basketball, morphological characters be damned. Sorry for the rant. Don't get me wrong, if all the evidence says to change what we know about the world, we change. That's the beauty of science.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-85933913039854651072014-09-26T01:44:00.000-04:002014-10-15T16:24:41.409-04:00Autumn, Caterpillar Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I8NmnjiNCqU/VCRQ3p5q4UI/AAAAAAAALCU/b56TFwmy0ZI/s1600/Acronicta%2Bamericana%2Bcat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I8NmnjiNCqU/VCRQ3p5q4UI/AAAAAAAALCU/b56TFwmy0ZI/s1600/Acronicta%2Bamericana%2Bcat.jpg" height="337" width="400" /></a></div>Fall is the time when many caterpillars are maturing. I did a post on moth caterpillars at this same time last year. You can see those right&nbsp;<a href="http://fieldbioinohio.blogspot.com/2013/09/caterpillar-hunting.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Some are repeats, but most are new. This is <i>Acronicta americana</i>, the American Dagger Moth. It looks somewhat like a Tiger or Tussock moth, but the <u>paired black</u> hairs serve to separate it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tUdpUc2dXnw/VCRSxEqq1vI/AAAAAAAALCg/Yp3xEbywE8o/s1600/fall%2Bwebworm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tUdpUc2dXnw/VCRSxEqq1vI/AAAAAAAALCg/Yp3xEbywE8o/s1600/fall%2Bwebworm.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-23uTqY07t2M/VCRS4AALSVI/AAAAAAAALCo/VdLl3LoVzoI/s1600/fall%2Bwebworm%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-23uTqY07t2M/VCRS4AALSVI/AAAAAAAALCo/VdLl3LoVzoI/s1600/fall%2Bwebworm%2Bclose.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div><b>Fall Webworm</b>, <i>Hyphantria cunea</i>. The two rows of black spots, and widely spreading hairs help to identify it. Once they reach their last instar, they tend to wander away from their web.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ndpH59oCHCs/VCRTbiEiVBI/AAAAAAAALCw/kypVoqkgJNA/s1600/fall%2Bwebworm%2BHyphantria%2Bcunea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ndpH59oCHCs/VCRTbiEiVBI/AAAAAAAALCw/kypVoqkgJNA/s1600/fall%2Bwebworm%2BHyphantria%2Bcunea.jpg" height="351" width="400" /></a></div>Most people have probably noticed them when they surround an entire branch with their large webs. Be aware, Fall webworms can be found throughout the summer, not just now. They stick to the end branches, so no real serious damage occurs to the trees they feed on.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gyrKozV4jq8/VCRVAwNVMuI/AAAAAAAALC8/SOZF-H2bL0k/s1600/gold%2Bmoth%2Bcat%2Bimm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gyrKozV4jq8/VCRVAwNVMuI/AAAAAAAALC8/SOZF-H2bL0k/s1600/gold%2Bmoth%2Bcat%2Bimm.jpg" height="302" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oPQ5zWJv4jM/VCRVISfavhI/AAAAAAAALDE/qgmljlMQYfQ/s1600/gold%2Bmoth%2Bcat%2Byoung.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oPQ5zWJv4jM/VCRVISfavhI/AAAAAAAALDE/qgmljlMQYfQ/s1600/gold%2Bmoth%2Bcat%2Byoung.jpg" height="391" width="400" /></a></div>A bright orange head with yellow and black blotches. These tiny early instars did not look familiar to me. It is always best to look for more, hopefully older ones, to figure out what it is.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EjujvoT0rbM/VCRVqEylIsI/AAAAAAAALDM/mbtPcnMQcEw/s1600/gold%2Bmoth%2Bcat%2BBasilodes%2Bpepita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EjujvoT0rbM/VCRVqEylIsI/AAAAAAAALDM/mbtPcnMQcEw/s1600/gold%2Bmoth%2Bcat%2BBasilodes%2Bpepita.jpg" height="295" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IHZf4udxMQc/VCRVy1EKGNI/AAAAAAAALDU/PdJyJDCzCnQ/s1600/gold%2Bmoth%2Bcat%2Bhanging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IHZf4udxMQc/VCRVy1EKGNI/AAAAAAAALDU/PdJyJDCzCnQ/s1600/gold%2Bmoth%2Bcat%2Bhanging.jpg" height="307" width="400" /></a></div>Sure enough, I found some bigger ones. A brilliantly colored mature form with rows of orange spots on back, and a row of white on the side. This is the <b>Gold Moth</b>, <i>Basilodes pepita</i>, an Owlet Moth. Its food plant is <b>Wingstem</b>, <i>Verbesina alternifolia</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mwa2OflF1d4/VCSZT_e1nhI/AAAAAAAALDk/mZ06apKdyCg/s1600/green%2Binchworm%2BMacaria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mwa2OflF1d4/VCSZT_e1nhI/AAAAAAAALDk/mZ06apKdyCg/s1600/green%2Binchworm%2BMacaria.jpg" height="400" width="347" /></a></div>A tiny Inchworm hangs by a silken thread while grasping another plant. Even though I have several caterpillar guides, including one just on Inchworms, these never seem to match up to a sure thing. That green line down the back, yellow lines on either side, and those fake eyes lead me to a Macaria species of some sort. Who knows for sure. I just don't want to bother Dave Wagner every time I take a photo of one.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cLK9lBcs5xw/VCSaZRy2xEI/AAAAAAAALDs/n37dg4qfaoM/s1600/Hethemia%3ABiston%2Binchworm%2Bprolegs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cLK9lBcs5xw/VCSaZRy2xEI/AAAAAAAALDs/n37dg4qfaoM/s1600/Hethemia%3ABiston%2Binchworm%2Bprolegs.jpg" height="313" width="400" /></a></div>Inchworms are different than other caterpillars because they lack prolegs in the middle of the abdomen. There are usually two at the rear.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5X-Tw9PJRfs/VCSbPT7pkxI/AAAAAAAALD0/j6t4U_C8-1U/s1600/Hethemia%3ABiston%2Binchworm%2Bhead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5X-Tw9PJRfs/VCSbPT7pkxI/AAAAAAAALD0/j6t4U_C8-1U/s1600/Hethemia%3ABiston%2Binchworm%2Bhead.jpg" height="306" width="400" /></a></div>Here is the same caterpillar up front. That crest on the head, followed by two raised bumps, means this could be in the genus Biston or maybe Hethemia.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEg39OU0uKI/VCTXFGaI8NI/AAAAAAAALEE/eNIi8gD8A9U/s1600/hog%2Bcat%2Bdarapsa%2Bmyron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEg39OU0uKI/VCTXFGaI8NI/AAAAAAAALEE/eNIi8gD8A9U/s1600/hog%2Bcat%2Bdarapsa%2Bmyron.jpg" height="290" width="400" /></a></div>I also came across a few Hornworms. This is the <b>Hog Sphinx</b>, <i>Darapsa myron</i>. Its lime green color is flanked by a row of white fish head shapes. In the last instar, it is not unusual to see the first couple abdominal segments swollen like this. Its food plant gives rise to a second common name, the <b>Virginia Creeper Sphinx</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-77yOaSZvna0/VCTY0Ihx4SI/AAAAAAAALEQ/HjHWoJxwrUE/s1600/wavwed%2Bsphinx%2Bcat%2Bdark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-77yOaSZvna0/VCTY0Ihx4SI/AAAAAAAALEQ/HjHWoJxwrUE/s1600/wavwed%2Bsphinx%2Bcat%2Bdark.jpg" height="247" width="400" /></a></div>There are many hornworms that sport light colored lines on each abdominal segment. The wide pale stripe on the face, and the pink horn, lead us to the <b>Waved Sphinx</b>, <i>Ceratomia undulosa</i>. This caterpillar is done feeding. When mature, many species turn from green to orange or brown before pupating.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g405dDvkiGo/VCTa6sZs_RI/AAAAAAAALEc/06Fz6qZmXhA/s1600/hornworm%2Bwalnut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g405dDvkiGo/VCTa6sZs_RI/AAAAAAAALEc/06Fz6qZmXhA/s1600/hornworm%2Bwalnut.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Many small white beads circle the body of this caterpillar. The pink spots interspersed on the back make it quite striking. It's the <b>Walnut Sphinx</b>, <i>Amorpha juglandis</i>, found feeding on both Walnut and Hickory.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FG6_fFnvSrs/VCTbvgaPmAI/AAAAAAAALEk/mKI5efUFpTU/s1600/hornworm%2C%2Bwalnut%2Bhead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FG6_fFnvSrs/VCTbvgaPmAI/AAAAAAAALEk/mKI5efUFpTU/s1600/hornworm%2C%2Bwalnut%2Bhead.jpg" height="290" width="400" /></a></div>The pink-red spots are variable on the back, so take a closer look at the front end. It has a pointy cone head or bishops cap.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cIxO5T_ndu0/VCTeGDYzF5I/AAAAAAAALEw/AaMcml4BaGY/s1600/hornworm%2C%2Bwalnut%2Bhorn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cIxO5T_ndu0/VCTeGDYzF5I/AAAAAAAALEw/AaMcml4BaGY/s1600/hornworm%2C%2Bwalnut%2Bhorn.jpg" height="347" width="400" /></a></div>At the other end, the horn appears to be bleeding onto the body. It is just a color pattern, although this caterpillars horn is actually broken off.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8bxJhoCL4cg/VCTfzkaWNiI/AAAAAAAALE8/QA30uY-M-vU/s1600/luna%2Bcat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8bxJhoCL4cg/VCTfzkaWNiI/AAAAAAAALE8/QA30uY-M-vU/s1600/luna%2Bcat.jpg" height="271" width="400" /></a></div>A quick shot of a <b>Luna Moth</b> larvae, <i>Actias luna</i>. When disturbed, many caterpillars stop feeding and rear back their heads like this.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kKe2vtJ7Oao/VCTg60gYKWI/AAAAAAAALFE/A2lBwWqB0a4/s1600/Parasa%2Bchloris%2Band%2Bleaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kKe2vtJ7Oao/VCTg60gYKWI/AAAAAAAALFE/A2lBwWqB0a4/s1600/Parasa%2Bchloris%2Band%2Bleaf.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>One of the ways I find so many caterpillars is to see beyond the obvious. What most people might pass off as just part of the changing leaf tip, I look closer. Sometimes, for whatever reason, things don't seem quite right.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C1ohFH_Ye_E/VCTjbSbLdjI/AAAAAAAALFQ/zdCX-uP8K7U/s1600/Parasa%2Bchloris%2Bcat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C1ohFH_Ye_E/VCTjbSbLdjI/AAAAAAAALFQ/zdCX-uP8K7U/s1600/Parasa%2Bchloris%2Bcat.jpg" height="335" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2afnY7Q_LNA/VCTjglN02cI/AAAAAAAALFY/a9EkY_zWTxE/s1600/Parasa%2Bchloris%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2afnY7Q_LNA/VCTjglN02cI/AAAAAAAALFY/a9EkY_zWTxE/s1600/Parasa%2Bchloris%2Bclose.jpg" height="283" width="400" /></a></div>By simply turning the leaf over, I could see it was one of my slugs. This is <i>Parasa chloris</i>, the <b>Smaller Green Parasa</b>. The green is in reference to the color on the moth. This caterpillar always looks to me like it's somewhat deflated or blob like. It rides flat and low from head to tail. Due to the shape of the upper portions, it's often nicknamed a 'junk', after a Chinese fishing boat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ckzlpsyP-c/VCTnBw9r3hI/AAAAAAAALFk/d1271Drw1Ss/s1600/skiff%2Bcat%2BProlimacodes%2Bbadia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ckzlpsyP-c/VCTnBw9r3hI/AAAAAAAALFk/d1271Drw1Ss/s1600/skiff%2Bcat%2BProlimacodes%2Bbadia.jpg" height="255" width="400" /></a></div>Another favorite slug of mine. Oh, who am I kidding, in this family, they're all favorites. The<b> Skiff Moth,</b> <i>Prolimacodes badia</i>. The amount of brown and white patching will vary, and is said to mimic decaying portions of a leaf.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5EjcllvmyRM/VCTn1XG4ZcI/AAAAAAAALFs/zErQR9HAifY/s1600/skiff%2Bcat%2B%26%2Begg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5EjcllvmyRM/VCTn1XG4ZcI/AAAAAAAALFs/zErQR9HAifY/s1600/skiff%2Bcat%2B%26%2Begg.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div>On the other side there are two white spots. The one in the middle is actually the egg of a wasp, as this caterpillar has been parasitized.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dlm0j_AInso/VCToesys2KI/AAAAAAAALF4/bz10wkFEnJg/s1600/Spilosoma%2Bvirginica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dlm0j_AInso/VCToesys2KI/AAAAAAAALF4/bz10wkFEnJg/s1600/Spilosoma%2Bvirginica.jpg" height="280" width="400" /></a></div>Falling from trees, in huge numbers right now, are the tiger moths. This one was also crawling around on Wingstem. It's <i>Spilosoma virginica</i>, The <b>Virginia Tiger </b>or <b>Yellow Woolybear</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aIAuA9DB7tc/VCTpk1EqxUI/AAAAAAAALGA/GjTBM6UnVrk/s1600/pale%2Btiger%2Bface.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aIAuA9DB7tc/VCTpk1EqxUI/AAAAAAAALGA/GjTBM6UnVrk/s1600/pale%2Btiger%2Bface.jpg" height="322" width="400" /></a></div>Long black antennae and bright orange eyes. Well actually, they are neither, but possibly intimidating to a potential predator. This is the <b>Pale </b>or <b>Banded Tiger Moth</b>, <i>Halysidota tessellaris</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xRn4FjihXmg/VCTqd-W_n-I/AAAAAAAALGI/fU2Jq1bNXDU/s1600/pale%2Btiger%2Bantennae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xRn4FjihXmg/VCTqd-W_n-I/AAAAAAAALGI/fU2Jq1bNXDU/s1600/pale%2Btiger%2Bantennae.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>My imagination sometimes goes off the deep end. I think this looks like a Sheep Dog laying down with its legs out.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rOJfqvakT1k/VCTq49mYPMI/AAAAAAAALGQ/ZEtfdurSZ60/s1600/woolybear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rOJfqvakT1k/VCTq49mYPMI/AAAAAAAALGQ/ZEtfdurSZ60/s1600/woolybear.jpg" height="286" width="400" /></a></div>If we are doing Tiger Moths, we have to include the classic <b>Common Woolybear,</b> <i>Pyrrharctia isabella</i>. These, like many Tiger Moths, will overwinter as a caterpillar, and hatch out next year. The adult is a rather drab mixture of yellow and orange, and is known as the <b>Isabella Moth</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WID7Wiwx4UE/VCTzHCIHRiI/AAAAAAAALGo/Kycj72LDpYw/s1600/redbud.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WID7Wiwx4UE/VCTzHCIHRiI/AAAAAAAALGo/Kycj72LDpYw/s1600/redbud.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The large round leaves of the <b>Redbud</b>, <i>Cercis canadensis</i>, are very common along the edges of most woodlands.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--6wcYkm71pA/VCTzgF9rY4I/AAAAAAAALGw/L6UvUdfGjZ0/s1600/redbud%2Bleaf%2Bfolder%2Bgelechiidae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--6wcYkm71pA/VCTzgF9rY4I/AAAAAAAALGw/L6UvUdfGjZ0/s1600/redbud%2Bleaf%2Bfolder%2Bgelechiidae.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>When I see a Redbud leaf folded in half, it grabs my attention, especially one that appears white. Obviously there is some activity going on here. Perhaps a leaf miner or skeletonizer.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-meLCqKWyhiI/VCT0M7OTPoI/AAAAAAAALG4/4z2vGUqw8kM/s1600/redbud%2Bleaf-folder%2BFascista%2Bcercerisella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-meLCqKWyhiI/VCT0M7OTPoI/AAAAAAAALG4/4z2vGUqw8kM/s1600/redbud%2Bleaf-folder%2BFascista%2Bcercerisella.jpg" height="390" width="400" /></a></div>Upon opening it, you can see the silken strands that were holding the leaf together. A small black and white caterpillar has been feeding on just the soft tissue. This is the <b>Redbud Leaf-folder</b>, <i>Fascista cercerisella</i>, a member of the micro moth family Gelechiidae.<br /><br />Caterpillars are easy to find. With a few exceptions, most of these were taken in a 100 yard path along the edge of a woods. A day after posting this I found another. If I get a few more species, I'll add them to the bottom of this post in October. On second thought, look for more in my Fall Insect Walk post coming soon.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-883469487361776722014-09-09T16:12:00.000-04:002014-09-27T22:47:21.852-04:00Moth Hunting with Lisa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qVwmW1KQosA/U_462IeB2QI/AAAAAAAAKgI/_XTpBNLXEBo/s1600/tiger%2Bmoth%2BApantesis%2Bcarlotta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qVwmW1KQosA/U_462IeB2QI/AAAAAAAAKgI/_XTpBNLXEBo/s1600/tiger%2Bmoth%2BApantesis%2Bcarlotta.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Back in July, Lisa Sells and I went out looking for moths. We decided to try again in late August. Last time I spent most of it with the camera, this time I had my jars. I didn't pay much attention to this <b>Banded</b>&nbsp;<b>Tiger Moth</b> at first, as there are many that look like this. Upon closer examination, I think this is <i>Apantesis carlotta</i>. This is a recently described species that used to be lumped in with the rest. What's different is the <u>basal</u>&nbsp;<u>edge </u>of the wing is lined in <b>black</b>, not white. What I meant by "the rest", is the Tiger Moth complex of <i>vittata/nais/phalerata</i>, which are almost impossible to tell apart visually.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ra9LWgfOb9Y/VA9gEZ89d8I/AAAAAAAALB8/THqURYymbEw/s1600/Papaipema%2Bcircumlucens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ra9LWgfOb9Y/VA9gEZ89d8I/AAAAAAAALB8/THqURYymbEw/s1600/Papaipema%2Bcircumlucens.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><i>Papaipema circumlucens</i>, <b>Hop Stalk Borer</b>, I think. Lisa and I having been going back and forth on figuring this one out. These are stem boring&nbsp;moths. Caterpillars in this genus eat out the center stem on a variety of herbaceous plants. This one feeds on Hops and Dogbane. The overall color pattern, and the two small white dots near the wing base leads me to this species. Papaipema moths are very similar in looks. This is one I had never collected before, and there are not a lot of photographs out there. The jury is still out, and I will have an expert verify the ID at a later date.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dNoVYVCG8nI/U_5fGp5GZnI/AAAAAAAAKmM/fjCxeNOPPPU/s1600/Ethmia%2Bzelleriella%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dNoVYVCG8nI/U_5fGp5GZnI/AAAAAAAAKmM/fjCxeNOPPPU/s1600/Ethmia%2Bzelleriella%2Bclose.jpg" height="257" width="400" /></a></div><i>Ethmia zelleriella</i>, <b>Zeller's Ethmia</b>. Last year down at Shawnee I picked up two species of Ethmia. <i>trifurcella</i>, with its charcoal black wings, and <i>longimaculella</i>, with its polka-dotted and streaked wings. Zeller's Ethmia differs from those by having a yellow body and yellow legs. This was another first for me.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OWD96zYhexs/U_5nvVoR9-I/AAAAAAAAKms/CblNKx8KVRg/s1600/Wavy-lined%2Bemerald%2BSynchlora%2Bareata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OWD96zYhexs/U_5nvVoR9-I/AAAAAAAAKms/CblNKx8KVRg/s1600/Wavy-lined%2Bemerald%2BSynchlora%2Bareata.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Wavy-lined Emerald</b>, <i>Synchlora areata</i>. This is one of the smallest of the Green Emeralds. In my last post on moths, I mentioned to always look for three things to distinguish between species. In <i>areata</i>, look for a white body stripe, wavy lines in the wings, and no red border on the wing edges.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xWlutmQczsk/U_5pfEG11xI/AAAAAAAAKm0/0Oaq7Hg_9Ak/s1600/Red%2BTwin-spot%2BXanthorhoe%2Bferrugata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xWlutmQczsk/U_5pfEG11xI/AAAAAAAAKm0/0Oaq7Hg_9Ak/s1600/Red%2BTwin-spot%2BXanthorhoe%2Bferrugata.jpg" height="335" width="400" /></a></div>This Inchworm has two sets of rusty colored patches near the wing base, a dark brown patch in the center of the wing, with two lobes reaching towards the white area, and two brown spots near the outer edge of the wing. With everything in twos, we should call this the <b>Red Twin-spot</b>, <i>Xanthorhoe ferrugata</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l5g3JySHkWk/VAnoBpQQvmI/AAAAAAAAK_A/Om72LQ8hMlw/s1600/Lascoria%2Bambigualis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l5g3JySHkWk/VAnoBpQQvmI/AAAAAAAAK_A/Om72LQ8hMlw/s1600/Lascoria%2Bambigualis.jpg" height="382" width="400" /></a></div><i>Lascoria ambigualis</i>. Sometimes called the <b>Ambiguous Moth</b>, that name seems so ambiguous, if you know what I mean. I put this in the Deltoid Noctuids because of the triangle shape. It doesn't matter if it truly is a deltoid Owlet or not. It works for me, and helps narrow it down so I can go right to the references for an exact name. While you shouldn't ignore established common names, there is nothing wrong with coming up with something original to aid in recognition. I like to call it the <b>3-spotted Lascoria</b>, due to the black marks. Look at the third spot away from the wing margin. There is an indentation in the wing, like a bite was taken out. This helps in ID.<br /><br />Most of my beginning dendrology students have never had an identification class before. Like the book 'Don't Be Such A Scientist', I tell them to make up their own method of learning. You don't have to follow technical jargon, use your own vocabulary. Develop a system. Everything in biology works on a system. <b>Don't</b> try to memorize, you'll never retain it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vofDHe3Oh2Y/VAnuM-zE9fI/AAAAAAAAK_Q/JnNa6KiSk7Q/s1600/Pandemis%2Blamprosana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vofDHe3Oh2Y/VAnuM-zE9fI/AAAAAAAAK_Q/JnNa6KiSk7Q/s1600/Pandemis%2Blamprosana.jpg" height="400" width="395" /></a></div><i>Pandemis lamprosana</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-po2LbHG72dw/VAnucZGYyNI/AAAAAAAAK_Y/pqZ7sU2KYUQ/s1600/Choristoneura%2Bobsoletana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-po2LbHG72dw/VAnucZGYyNI/AAAAAAAAK_Y/pqZ7sU2KYUQ/s1600/Choristoneura%2Bobsoletana.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><i>Choristoneura obsoletana </i>or<i> zapulata. </i>I'm also not afraid to put things out there that may be debated by those with more knowledge. Trouble is, most micro moth experts aren't cruising blogs. They are busy dissecting these to be sure. These are <b>Leafroller Moths</b>. The family is split into two groups. In these, the skinny bodies are covered by extra wide wings that remind me of Batman or Superman <u>capes</u>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8bI2LLFqEFo/VAnyl8TUZbI/AAAAAAAAK_k/PpmiORxL4rk/s1600/Banasa%2Bdimidiata%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8bI2LLFqEFo/VAnyl8TUZbI/AAAAAAAAK_k/PpmiORxL4rk/s1600/Banasa%2Bdimidiata%2Bclose.jpg" height="321" width="400" /></a></div>Besides moths, a few other notable critters came in. <i>Banasa dimidiata</i>, is a predominately yellow and brown <b>Stinkbug</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dEscTkP17Kg/VAnzlRrTSxI/AAAAAAAAK_s/Ml4CHZFR8ug/s1600/Alder%2BSpittlebug%2BClastotera%2Bobtusa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dEscTkP17Kg/VAnzlRrTSxI/AAAAAAAAK_s/Ml4CHZFR8ug/s1600/Alder%2BSpittlebug%2BClastotera%2Bobtusa.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Alder Spittlebug</b>, <i>Clastotera obtusa</i>. Sorry, my lens just couldn't get any closer to this tiny guy. This group of spittlebugs exhibit what is known as 'head-tail reversal'. There are two black spots at the back end that look like eyes. Some of these guys leave their rear legs extended out the back end to look like antennae. Predators tend to attack the head region, giving these bugs a chance to escape forward. The stripes resemble an abdomen, but that is actually the head. Blow up the picture, and you can see two wire like antennae sticking out the top.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RFeF41IsMwM/VAn1RC5OnBI/AAAAAAAAK_4/lkqsRBQQ1Zk/s1600/barnyard%2Borb%2Bweaver%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RFeF41IsMwM/VAn1RC5OnBI/AAAAAAAAK_4/lkqsRBQQ1Zk/s1600/barnyard%2Borb%2Bweaver%2Bclose.jpg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>Behind the sheet we found a spider web with nothing in it. With a little looking, there it was, folded up under a twig.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xXREveb_nOI/VAn1qgMumAI/AAAAAAAALAA/92QUQtNuFeo/s1600/barnyard%2Borb%2Bweaver%2BAraneus%2Bcavaticus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xXREveb_nOI/VAn1qgMumAI/AAAAAAAALAA/92QUQtNuFeo/s1600/barnyard%2Borb%2Bweaver%2BAraneus%2Bcavaticus.jpg" height="400" width="397" /></a></div>After a while, it came out to the middle to sit. At first I thought maybe the Barnyard Orb Weaver, <i>Araneus cavaticus</i>. but I'm having second thoughts. Good thing, regardless of the abdomen color, the pale stripe and stitch marks make this the SAME species as below. Thanks again to Dr. Bradley.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4HiLM2pP5ek/VA9RGsxZYhI/AAAAAAAALBQ/2_5P5dPGnXs/s1600/Arabesque%2BOrb%2BNeoscona%2Barabesca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4HiLM2pP5ek/VA9RGsxZYhI/AAAAAAAALBQ/2_5P5dPGnXs/s1600/Arabesque%2BOrb%2BNeoscona%2Barabesca.jpg" height="330" width="400" /></a></div>Here is a different one I shot during the day. Those black stitch marks, and pale abdomen stripe match up better to the <b>Arabesque Orb Weaver</b>, <i>Neoscona arabesca</i>. Orb Weavers are so variable, I'm often guessing. I have a workshop with Richard Bradley soon, so I'll get the names straight with him, and make any needed changes. (update: changes made).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c36CeaOsa4Q/VA9UHy5HV0I/AAAAAAAALBY/gVkMryjwmQg/s1600/honey%2Bbee%2Bon%2Bsneezeweed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c36CeaOsa4Q/VA9UHy5HV0I/AAAAAAAALBY/gVkMryjwmQg/s1600/honey%2Bbee%2Bon%2Bsneezeweed.jpg" height="400" width="391" /></a></div>The night before I was with Lisa, I was scheduled to do a mothing program at Old Man's Cave. I got within one mile of the park, the clouds opened up, and pour it did. So much for moths. I tried to get a few pictures before dark, but couldn't get enough for a separate post, so I'm just filling up space. A Honeybee clings desperately to a <b>Common Sneezeweed </b><i>Helenium autumnale</i>, in hopes the rain has passed.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1GdzOjmiS8/VA9itw7ilBI/AAAAAAAALCE/PiUuizo28NM/s1600/chokeberry%2Bfruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1GdzOjmiS8/VA9itw7ilBI/AAAAAAAALCE/PiUuizo28NM/s1600/chokeberry%2Bfruit.jpg" height="400" width="353" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><b>Black Chokeberry</b>. Sometimes put in the genus <i>Pyrus</i> or <i>Photinia</i>, I know it as <i>Aronia melanocarpa. </i>The fruit is edible, though sour to some palates. It's used for jelly, jam, pies, and drinks.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2b4Hgp-mf5E/VA9XlRrxYWI/AAAAAAAALBo/U3bt64pDFWE/s1600/chokeberry%2Bleaf%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2b4Hgp-mf5E/VA9XlRrxYWI/AAAAAAAALBo/U3bt64pDFWE/s1600/chokeberry%2Bleaf%2Bclose.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Chokeberry differs from other members of the family by the center of the leaf. Identification is based on the black specs located along the white vein.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BzEh3nrbH6k/VA9d4TLlhtI/AAAAAAAALB0/Go8bNtjb67s/s1600/partridgeberry%2Bfruit%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BzEh3nrbH6k/VA9d4TLlhtI/AAAAAAAALB0/Go8bNtjb67s/s1600/partridgeberry%2Bfruit%2B2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Even when dark, the bright red fruit of <b>Partridgeberry</b>, <i>Mitchella repens</i>, is quite visible.&nbsp;Some of the most interesting plants can be found along the edge of the upper falls. That area is now closed off, and you are subjected to walking a path full of "landscape plants". What a pitiful sight for such a wonderful park. I understand it is due to fatalities, and it's a safety concern, but planted patches of vegetation? It looks so contrived.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-41256847609603613122014-09-01T15:09:00.000-04:002014-09-07T18:19:25.043-04:00Exploring Mill Creek and French Creek<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b5SZjVw8C5U/U_NptEI4TCI/AAAAAAAAKWc/m5bxxKDkJl4/s1600/Tripudia%2Bflavofasciata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b5SZjVw8C5U/U_NptEI4TCI/AAAAAAAAKWc/m5bxxKDkJl4/s1600/Tripudia%2Bflavofasciata.jpg" height="376" width="400" /></a></div>With school coming back in session, I wanted to hike a couple places before time ran out. Mill Creek Park in Youngstown always has things to find. I start with this photo of a very small Noctuid moth. I had never seen this one before, and the closest thing I could find was a species of Tripudia, even though this group is not known from Ohio. Thanks to Jim Vargo for verifying it is indeed <b><i>Tripudia flavofasciata</i></b>.&nbsp;There is no common name.&nbsp;I know our Ohio Lepidopterists database is way behind, but as of right now, this may be a state record. Of course it was collected, just in case.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aZIxe-ISZ50/U_NrrXniPVI/AAAAAAAAKWk/0KqBRQLph94/s1600/water%2Bwillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aZIxe-ISZ50/U_NrrXniPVI/AAAAAAAAKWk/0KqBRQLph94/s1600/water%2Bwillow.jpg" height="331" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5NI9XUSsI7A/U_NrzyoXwgI/AAAAAAAAKWs/7mXjPY8Yd-Y/s1600/water%2Bwillow%2BJusticia%2Bamericana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5NI9XUSsI7A/U_NrzyoXwgI/AAAAAAAAKWs/7mXjPY8Yd-Y/s1600/water%2Bwillow%2BJusticia%2Bamericana.jpg" height="376" width="400" /></a></div>I spent most of the time walking the edge of Lake Glacier. One of the abundant wetland plants included &nbsp;<b>Water Willow</b>, <i>Justicia americana</i>. The unusual looking flower is part of the Acanthaceae, a mostly tropical family.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7aB9IcAb2y8/U_NtuboW2oI/AAAAAAAAKW0/d3EVBsEYAAM/s1600/blue%2Blobelia%2BLobelia%2Bsiphilitica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7aB9IcAb2y8/U_NtuboW2oI/AAAAAAAAKW0/d3EVBsEYAAM/s1600/blue%2Blobelia%2BLobelia%2Bsiphilitica.jpg" height="400" width="360" /></a></div>The <b>Great Blue Lobelia</b>, <i>Lobelia siphilitica</i>, is one of those plants you just have to photograph every time, no matter how common it is.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lFuAYjSkaPk/U_Nuj53NbtI/AAAAAAAAKW8/7n8MiEWm5To/s1600/skipper%2Bon%2Bheal-all.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lFuAYjSkaPk/U_Nuj53NbtI/AAAAAAAAKW8/7n8MiEWm5To/s1600/skipper%2Bon%2Bheal-all.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>A <b>Silver-spotted Skipper</b>, <i>Epargyreus clarus</i>, alights on a Heal-all plant.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRCGxLWqWWE/U_Nu9l7ZbNI/AAAAAAAAKXE/a2AfH35Swrw/s1600/wild%2Bmint%2BMentha%2Barvensis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRCGxLWqWWE/U_Nu9l7ZbNI/AAAAAAAAKXE/a2AfH35Swrw/s1600/wild%2Bmint%2BMentha%2Barvensis.jpg" height="380" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R-37tMs_pZo/U_NvHRq_1nI/AAAAAAAAKXM/6kvI2o-PsWw/s1600/wild%2Bmint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R-37tMs_pZo/U_NvHRq_1nI/AAAAAAAAKXM/6kvI2o-PsWw/s1600/wild%2Bmint.jpg" height="363" width="400" /></a></div><b>Wild Mint</b>, <i>Mentha arvensis</i>. Size and color of the flowers, along with the leaf shape, help separate this from the similar looking Horehounds and Bugleweeds.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RB4_asWqPHM/U_NvuouXx0I/AAAAAAAAKXU/omdUMfLgjrg/s1600/blue-fronted%2Bdancer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RB4_asWqPHM/U_NvuouXx0I/AAAAAAAAKXU/omdUMfLgjrg/s1600/blue-fronted%2Bdancer.jpg" height="307" width="400" /></a></div><b>Blue-fronted Dancer</b>, <i>Argia apicalis</i>. Like the Skipper and Lobelia, I guess I have my favorites I like to photograph every time I run across them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xMm7H8pDhCo/U_NwXtUYEkI/AAAAAAAAKXc/B9lH_23D0EQ/s1600/dusky%2Bdancer%2BArgia%2Btranslata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xMm7H8pDhCo/U_NwXtUYEkI/AAAAAAAAKXc/B9lH_23D0EQ/s1600/dusky%2Bdancer%2BArgia%2Btranslata.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rr6SHZ-gx58/U_Nwg5uONMI/AAAAAAAAKXk/KOqLBSNVaq4/s1600/Dusky%2BDancer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rr6SHZ-gx58/U_Nwg5uONMI/AAAAAAAAKXk/KOqLBSNVaq4/s1600/Dusky%2BDancer.jpg" height="308" width="400" /></a></div>I usually tend to blame my photography techniques for the lack of brilliant colors. Well this time it's not me, these really are this dull colored. Another&nbsp;new species for me, the <b>Dusky Dancer,</b> <i>Argia translata</i>. In the upper photo, the female has two tan stripes on the side of the thorax. The male is pretty much all black, with thin blue rings on each abdominal segment. He also sports violet-blue eyes. In Dragonflies and Damselflies, once the male has clasped the female, he won't let go till she has laid eggs. Here the male stays frozen, suspended in mid air, while the female rests.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9HuZjYISXc/U_ey8nZj9LI/AAAAAAAAKX0/mEE78jX6u8s/s1600/agrimony%2Bfl%2Blorain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9HuZjYISXc/U_ey8nZj9LI/AAAAAAAAKX0/mEE78jX6u8s/s1600/agrimony%2Bfl%2Blorain.jpg" height="308" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ZY2eblJni8/U_ezDcSiBBI/AAAAAAAAKX8/NCSR_UIqUwc/s1600/agrimony%2C%2Btall%2Bhairy%2Bseed%2Blorain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ZY2eblJni8/U_ezDcSiBBI/AAAAAAAAKX8/NCSR_UIqUwc/s1600/agrimony%2C%2Btall%2Bhairy%2Bseed%2Blorain.jpg" height="400" width="356" /></a></div>I also spent some time along the trails of French Creek, part of the Lorain County Metro Parks. This is my old stomping ground when I was a kid. The first thing I went after was another species of Agrimony. This species has larger fruit than others, and they contain many hooked bristles. I believe this is <b>Tall Hairy Agrimony</b>, <i>Agrimonia gryposepala</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V4FEOHRydfw/U_e1zaw8muI/AAAAAAAAKYI/i_QCcVuO7wU/s1600/agrimony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V4FEOHRydfw/U_e1zaw8muI/AAAAAAAAKYI/i_QCcVuO7wU/s1600/agrimony.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f-PKLp0intI/U_e18al7HTI/AAAAAAAAKYQ/GAzcRefGRgE/s1600/agrimony%2C%2Btall%2Bhairy%2BAgrimonia%2Bgryposepala.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f-PKLp0intI/U_e18al7HTI/AAAAAAAAKYQ/GAzcRefGRgE/s1600/agrimony%2C%2Btall%2Bhairy%2BAgrimonia%2Bgryposepala.jpg" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>In my recent post on Prairies, I illustrated the upper plant, <i>Agrimonia parviflora</i>. That species has many leaflets along the stems. Tall Hairy Agrimony has only 5-7 leaflets, and the hairs on the stem are not gland tipped.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DiAMS06xlIE/U_e2qmu2WxI/AAAAAAAAKYY/DG2l2lq-xPg/s1600/St.%2BJohn's-wort%2C%2Bcommon%2Bhypericum%2Bperforatum%2Blorain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DiAMS06xlIE/U_e2qmu2WxI/AAAAAAAAKYY/DG2l2lq-xPg/s1600/St.%2BJohn's-wort%2C%2Bcommon%2Bhypericum%2Bperforatum%2Blorain.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Growing right next to the Agrimony was this <b>Common St. John's-wort</b>, <i>Hypericum perforatum</i>. Look for the black dots along the edge of the petals. If you find a St. John's-wort with black dots along the leaf margin, that's <i>Hypericum maculatum</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_jpU7o9eUY/U_e6eTmDUzI/AAAAAAAAKYs/T7CUY6i_Eko/s1600/tarnished%2Bplant%2Bbug%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_jpU7o9eUY/U_e6eTmDUzI/AAAAAAAAKYs/T7CUY6i_Eko/s1600/tarnished%2Bplant%2Bbug%2Bclose.jpg" height="303" width="400" /></a></div><b>Tarnished Plant Bug</b>, <i>Lygus lineolaris</i>. This native bug is widespread throughout the country, and in some circles is considered a major pest. That's because it will feed on several hundred different plants. Look for the V or Y shaped mark up on the <i>scutellum</i>. Plant Bugs belong to the family Miridae. The key character to recognize this family are two cells near the back of the wings. They look like mini wings in the picture. I refer to the dark cells sitting in-between the white spots. This part of the wing points&nbsp;<u>downward</u>, and looks bent or broken in profile.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UqutWmXW1UA/U_e91RXMbtI/AAAAAAAAKY4/iwCqdFL4ENI/s1600/leafhopper%2BFlatomenis%2Bproxima.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UqutWmXW1UA/U_e91RXMbtI/AAAAAAAAKY4/iwCqdFL4ENI/s1600/leafhopper%2BFlatomenis%2Bproxima.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></div>A <b>Leafhopper</b>, <i>Flatomenis promima</i>, hides under a group of feeding aphids. Whenever you approach these with a camera, they immediately hop to the other side of the stem. If you go to that side, they once again reverse their position, and if you try again... well you get the idea.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pJfUQydgVTE/U_e-hPDO4PI/AAAAAAAAKZA/FBZ2GGuni70/s1600/long%2Bleg%2Bfly%2BCondylostylus%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pJfUQydgVTE/U_e-hPDO4PI/AAAAAAAAKZA/FBZ2GGuni70/s1600/long%2Bleg%2Bfly%2BCondylostylus%2Bclose.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>A <b>Long-legged Fly</b> of the genus <i>Condylostylus</i>. They don't hide along a stem. When you photograph them, they jump to a different spot on the leaf, especially during pre-flash. Whether it's the light or noise of the camera, they can be a pain to get in focus. If you shoot enough pictures in a row, they look like they're dancing a jig. They are usually more green than orange, but the flash really brought out the orange this time.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SYB98bLgcb8/U_e_t-BbpJI/AAAAAAAAKZM/g-cGwLDtqgo/s1600/Lauxaniidae%2BHomoneura%2Bconjuncta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SYB98bLgcb8/U_e_t-BbpJI/AAAAAAAAKZM/g-cGwLDtqgo/s1600/Lauxaniidae%2BHomoneura%2Bconjuncta.jpg" height="400" width="386" /></a></div>A <b>Lauxanid Fly</b>, <i>Homoneura conjuncta</i>, probes what I believe is a bird dropping. Either that or it's a parasitized cocoon of some sort. It wasn't soft and runny, but solid, and attached to the leaf. This fly can be recognized by the spotted wings and red orange eyes and body. They look like an oversized Drosophila Fruit Fly, but the hairs between the eyes are arranged differently.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WaEkAnqqktw/U_gLW4FuncI/AAAAAAAAKaI/8uDq9MhmkvU/s1600/clicker%2Bkatydid%2BAmblycorypha%2Balexanderi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WaEkAnqqktw/U_gLW4FuncI/AAAAAAAAKaI/8uDq9MhmkvU/s1600/clicker%2Bkatydid%2BAmblycorypha%2Balexanderi.jpg" height="286" width="400" /></a></div>I'm still trying to learn all of these to the species level. I purposely try to focus in on the back, as those markings can be helpful in identification. I believe this is the <b>Clicker Katydid</b>, <i>Amblycorypha</i> <i>alexanderi</i>. This species prefers to stay in woods rather than open fields.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x7a4ybpoXBo/U_gMEX3cCXI/AAAAAAAAKaQ/VS20auEh-Lc/s1600/Limoniid%2BCrane%2BFly%2BGnophomyia%2Btristissima.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x7a4ybpoXBo/U_gMEX3cCXI/AAAAAAAAKaQ/VS20auEh-Lc/s1600/Limoniid%2BCrane%2BFly%2BGnophomyia%2Btristissima.jpg" height="400" width="293" /></a></div>In a recent post I put up a Crane Fly with white feet. I just now got a name on it. Then I see another with the same body shape and similar size. This shiny, all black species, is a <b>Limoniid Crane Fly</b>, <i>Gnophomyia tristissima</i>.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bwIztZAE3ss/VAS1iOhBAkI/AAAAAAAAK8Q/4eZgiEaV1X8/s1600/silky%2Bdogwood%2Bfruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bwIztZAE3ss/VAS1iOhBAkI/AAAAAAAAK8Q/4eZgiEaV1X8/s1600/silky%2Bdogwood%2Bfruit.jpg" height="297" width="400" /></a></div>The purple-blue fruit of the <b>Silky Dogwood</b>, <i>Cornus amomum</i>, begins to mature in late summer and into September. Look for it in wet soils.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-99sjY_XmY8M/VAS3H1_w4kI/AAAAAAAAK8c/np8NusYF11c/s1600/solomons%2Bseal%2Bfruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-99sjY_XmY8M/VAS3H1_w4kI/AAAAAAAAK8c/np8NusYF11c/s1600/solomons%2Bseal%2Bfruit.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Solomon's Seal</b>, <i>Polygonatum biflorum</i>. Like the flowers, the fruit dangle down, but are hidden beneath the leaves. You often have to fold them over to get a nice picture.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k4F6u-WXW5Y/VAS1Q9VbnII/AAAAAAAAK8I/kW7w40wRKxU/s1600/dogwood%2Bgall%2Bmidge%2BCraneiobia%2Btuba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k4F6u-WXW5Y/VAS1Q9VbnII/AAAAAAAAK8I/kW7w40wRKxU/s1600/dogwood%2Bgall%2Bmidge%2BCraneiobia%2Btuba.jpg" height="301" width="400" /></a></div>Always on the lookout for new galls, these red tubes or trumpets belong to the <b>Dogwood Gall Midge</b>, <i>Craneiobia tuba</i>, a type of Cecidomyiidae. One species in this family of Flies causes Dogwood twigs to swell at their tips, while others create galls on Willow twigs and Goldenrod stems.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BzCQa3AolXQ/VAS7FYB8FFI/AAAAAAAAK8o/3NlgWfx3Gag/s1600/sumac%2C%2Bstaghorn%2Bwith%2Bgalls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BzCQa3AolXQ/VAS7FYB8FFI/AAAAAAAAK8o/3NlgWfx3Gag/s1600/sumac%2C%2Bstaghorn%2Bwith%2Bgalls.jpg" height="280" width="400" /></a></div>Has anybody noticed large sacks growing on sumacs? &nbsp;In this case it's <b>Staghorn Sumac</b>, <i>Rhus typhina</i>, but they will also be found on Smooth Sumac, <i>R. glabra</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iYq-r0sOrZk/VAS7xh9h9MI/AAAAAAAAK84/tiGrjO1H8sA/s1600/sumac%2Baphid%2Bgall%2Bwhite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iYq-r0sOrZk/VAS7xh9h9MI/AAAAAAAAK84/tiGrjO1H8sA/s1600/sumac%2Baphid%2Bgall%2Bwhite.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pZWVtSDYLZA/VAS75xZHRzI/AAAAAAAAK9A/yzG2pIdjars/s1600/sumac%2Bgalls%2Bpink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pZWVtSDYLZA/VAS75xZHRzI/AAAAAAAAK9A/yzG2pIdjars/s1600/sumac%2Bgalls%2Bpink.jpg" height="270" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RfiWYkdHhlY/VAS8GvKIy8I/AAAAAAAAK9I/QL1RDNvf0nI/s1600/sumac%2Baphid%2Bgall%2Bred.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RfiWYkdHhlY/VAS8GvKIy8I/AAAAAAAAK9I/QL1RDNvf0nI/s1600/sumac%2Baphid%2Bgall%2Bred.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></div>They start out white, turn to pink, and eventually this bright red. They are <b>Aphid Colonies</b> of the species <i>Melaphis rhois</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3AeD7SNjFG4/VAS82oFqNsI/AAAAAAAAK9Q/-4aJvJqEz0Y/s1600/sumac%2Baphid%2Bgalls%2BMelaphis%2Brhois.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3AeD7SNjFG4/VAS82oFqNsI/AAAAAAAAK9Q/-4aJvJqEz0Y/s1600/sumac%2Baphid%2Bgalls%2BMelaphis%2Brhois.jpg" height="283" width="400" /></a></div>The adults lay eggs on the leaf underside. This results in an irritation, and the plant tissue swells around the eggs. Upon hatching, the young aphids suck the plant juice created by the gall. Common names include Pouch gall, Balloon gall, Potato, Apple, and Tomato gall. Some wilting of the leaves will occur, and they may be unsightly, but they don't cause any real health issues for the plant.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lr-JZ9MR2Rg/VAS-F862a2I/AAAAAAAAK9Y/bluc0HsGb8Y/s1600/sumac%2Bgall%2Baphids%2Bclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lr-JZ9MR2Rg/VAS-F862a2I/AAAAAAAAK9Y/bluc0HsGb8Y/s1600/sumac%2Bgall%2Baphids%2Bclose.jpg" height="400" width="356" /></a></div>Break open a gall, and you can see the large number of Aphids inside. Besides the plant-insect association, there is a population of bacteria that live with the Aphids. These bacteria produce a toxin that can inhibit the success of parasitic wasps. Fossilized sumacs contained these Aphid galls, and they go back nearly 50 million years. It's the oldest known symbiotic relationship in nature.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-15154396526028326982014-08-14T13:22:00.000-04:002014-09-07T18:23:18.779-04:00A Wahkeena Insect Walk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JIXr_l4ECdg/U-YSGLPigOI/AAAAAAAAKS4/89DZY-ZOdJE/s1600/club-spur+orchid+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JIXr_l4ECdg/U-YSGLPigOI/AAAAAAAAKS4/89DZY-ZOdJE/s1600/club-spur+orchid+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Yes, I spend a lot of time at Wahkeena Nature Preserve in Fairfield County. It's not a far drive, it's in the Hocking Hills region, so the diversity is wonderful, and there is always someone there to tell me what orchids are in bloom.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1KDcDFzYpVs/U-YTM_60uJI/AAAAAAAAKTA/lCG3adbp99M/s1600/club-spur+Platanthera+clavellata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1KDcDFzYpVs/U-YTM_60uJI/AAAAAAAAKTA/lCG3adbp99M/s1600/club-spur+Platanthera+clavellata.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><b>Club-spur Orchid</b>, <i>Platanthera clavellata</i>, is a small green and white species. It has long spurs extending behind the flower heads. Stem leaves are few and minute, with the exception of <u>one</u> larger leaf near the bottom. Look for this near woodland seeps in late July.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CrI1zicO3dg/U-YXOlny-NI/AAAAAAAAKTU/Lf8ifRGyWZk/s1600/crane+fly+orchid+tall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CrI1zicO3dg/U-YXOlny-NI/AAAAAAAAKTU/Lf8ifRGyWZk/s1600/crane+fly+orchid+tall.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>This tall spike belongs to an early August bloomer, the <b>Crane-fly Orchid</b>, <i>Tipularia discolor</i>. This plant will have NO leaves while flowering.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Bl_AlEbbQc/U-YXwk4zyqI/AAAAAAAAKTc/CDThuhKCAbw/s1600/crane+fly+orchid+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Bl_AlEbbQc/U-YXwk4zyqI/AAAAAAAAKTc/CDThuhKCAbw/s1600/crane+fly+orchid+flowers.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jwrgvH7VpjY/U-YX5TGtSCI/AAAAAAAAKTk/CgLoxCVRgg8/s1600/crane+fly+orchid+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jwrgvH7VpjY/U-YX5TGtSCI/AAAAAAAAKTk/CgLoxCVRgg8/s1600/crane+fly+orchid+close.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>The flowers and stem are yellow to reddish-brown or maroon. After the flowers disappear, a broad leaf will protrude from the ground, similar to those of Puttyroot. Turn over the leaf and it will be <u>purple</u>. This is a moist soil species of woodlands that only grows if certain fungi occur in the area. Orchids with long spurs like this are pollinated by moths.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SmWlZWzgpoE/VAzaSicR-CI/AAAAAAAALAs/fpnG3SxxeVA/s1600/crane%2Bfly%2Bwhite%2Bfoot%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SmWlZWzgpoE/VAzaSicR-CI/AAAAAAAALAs/fpnG3SxxeVA/s1600/crane%2Bfly%2Bwhite%2Bfoot%2B3.jpg" height="341" width="400" /></a></div>Speaking of "Crane Flies", I found this critter checking out a seep right next to the orchid. I can not find anything in the Tipulidae family to match it. Based on the wings, body, and how it holds its legs, maybe it is a type of Winter Crane Fly or a Phantom Crane. The again, let's look in one of the more obscure families like Limoniids. I have been unsuccessful in searching all these families. I shouldn't be surprised. How often do you come across an insect wearing Hanes tighty-whitey sweat socks.<br /><br />Bingo! Just got a name for this fella. It is a <b>Limoniid</b>, <i>Hexatoma brevioricornis</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UvIxbSw6IAA/U-YbN7wfiKI/AAAAAAAAKT4/4CUQWWR4I3E/s1600/naked+flowered+ticktrefoil+plant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UvIxbSw6IAA/U-YbN7wfiKI/AAAAAAAAKT4/4CUQWWR4I3E/s1600/naked+flowered+ticktrefoil+plant.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>While searching for the orchid, I came across this rather bare and insignificant plant. Most of the flowers have already gone to seed. It's a Desmodium.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbA8W7BMO94/U-YbsIwLkzI/AAAAAAAAKUA/HHmkCQUg43k/s1600/naked+flowered+tick-trefoil+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbA8W7BMO94/U-YbsIwLkzI/AAAAAAAAKUA/HHmkCQUg43k/s1600/naked+flowered+tick-trefoil+close.jpg" height="400" width="367" /></a></div>It's called <b>Naked-flowered Tick-trefoil</b>, <i>Desmodium nudiflorum</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eo1-JwU52W8/U-YcXQ6mDcI/AAAAAAAAKUI/RdnSEg5GheI/s1600/naked+flowered+ticktrefoil+leaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eo1-JwU52W8/U-YcXQ6mDcI/AAAAAAAAKUI/RdnSEg5GheI/s1600/naked+flowered+ticktrefoil+leaf.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>I usually don't mess with Tick-trefoils, but this species is different, and a new one for me. The flowering stalk is <u>separate</u> from the leaves. This rosette of tri-foliate leaves are restricted to the base, growing on a different stem.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-963WBHSLrvM/U-YdJ_9N0WI/AAAAAAAAKUQ/iTHNXP2mdd0/s1600/naked+flowered+tick-trefoil+Desmodium+nudiflorum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-963WBHSLrvM/U-YdJ_9N0WI/AAAAAAAAKUQ/iTHNXP2mdd0/s1600/naked+flowered+tick-trefoil+Desmodium+nudiflorum.jpg" height="318" width="400" /></a></div>While taking pictures, I'd notice the flower would suddenly move back and forth for no apparent reason. I wasn't touching any part of the plant, and there was no wind, but every few seconds BOING, it would jump. Turns out there was a spider off to the side flicking this silken thread attached to the back of the petals. Apparently it does this to draw attention to the flower, and lure in insects, ingenious!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eQE13P55X3M/U-YginUcn7I/AAAAAAAAKUc/temo6CmU6qs/s1600/silverspotted+skipper+tent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eQE13P55X3M/U-YginUcn7I/AAAAAAAAKUc/temo6CmU6qs/s1600/silverspotted+skipper+tent.jpg" height="356" width="400" /></a></div>Judging by the chewed edges of these leaves, some insect has been busy. But what caterpillar has the time to set up a pup tent and go camping?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iMUi31m992k/U-Yg7-uIYgI/AAAAAAAAKUk/MxF1ADNfQY0/s1600/silverspotted+skipper+cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iMUi31m992k/U-Yg7-uIYgI/AAAAAAAAKUk/MxF1ADNfQY0/s1600/silverspotted+skipper+cat.jpg" height="286" width="400" /></a></div>The <b>Silver-spotted Skipper</b>, <i>Epargyreus clarus</i>, that's who. The plant is <b>Hog-peanut</b>, <i>Amphicarpaea</i> <i>bracteata</i>, one of its known food plants. Even at this small size you can recognize it. How many caterpillars have a boxing glove for a head!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T7cbtyZL5-Y/U-YiOppaSiI/AAAAAAAAKUw/Kw2MqcqPtac/s1600/tiger+bee+fly+Xenox+tirgrinus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T7cbtyZL5-Y/U-YiOppaSiI/AAAAAAAAKUw/Kw2MqcqPtac/s1600/tiger+bee+fly+Xenox+tirgrinus.jpg" height="358" width="400" /></a></div><b>Tiger Bee Fly</b>, <i>Xenox tigrinus</i>. This is one of the larger members of the family. Along with the size, those mottled wings are often confused with some of the Deer Flies. Don't worry, this one won't bite. They are good guys, and parasitize Carpenter Bees. The black body is spotted with white. The sunlight here makes the wings look white spotted as well, but they are actually transparent. A better name would have been Leopard bee fly.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIuqXWkH9UE/U-YkmZXptII/AAAAAAAAKU8/vbPPR1kKiGk/s1600/treehopper+Publilia+concava.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIuqXWkH9UE/U-YkmZXptII/AAAAAAAAKU8/vbPPR1kKiGk/s1600/treehopper+Publilia+concava.JPG" height="377" width="400" /></a></div><i>Publilia concava.</i>&nbsp;I posted this treehopper picture not too long ago. I just want to use it to compare with the next species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9d44Mejyhig/U-YlCWMkZbI/AAAAAAAAKVE/lGgaJuM4yJo/s1600/treehoppers+Publilia+reticulata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9d44Mejyhig/U-YlCWMkZbI/AAAAAAAAKVE/lGgaJuM4yJo/s1600/treehoppers+Publilia+reticulata.jpg" height="338" width="400" /></a></div>Another Treehopper being attended by ants. This looks like <i>Publilia reticulata</i>. It's smaller than the previous species, and lacks the white stripe. <b><i>reticulata</i></b> refers to the fish net or chain like appearance of the wing veins. In <i>concava</i>, they are all horizontal and parallel. Click on the photos for that detail. I believe these are the only two Publilia that occur in Ohio. This is its food plant, <b>Ironweed</b> (<i>Veronia</i>). I have mentioned many times how ants tend these for their sugar water. Below the vein, an ant rides piggy back on an immature hopper.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HceRikDwS5w/U-YntE3iN5I/AAAAAAAAKVQ/7J_R9QcY_8U/s1600/catalpa+worm+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HceRikDwS5w/U-YntE3iN5I/AAAAAAAAKVQ/7J_R9QcY_8U/s1600/catalpa+worm+3.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div><b>Catalpa Sphinx</b>, <i>Ceratomia catalpae</i>. Like the treehoppers above, I recently posted a picture of the adult. While perhaps the dullest of all the Sphinx Moth adults, the caterpillars are spectacular. Black backed with yellow sides, and the traditional horn near the rear. Fishermen swear by Catalpa Worms as an excellent bait. In the final instar, these caterpillars are skinny along their first half, and nearly twice as fat in the back half.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPJohtadZ6Q/U-Yn4dqFUdI/AAAAAAAAKVY/hbXsKznc5Z0/s1600/catalpa+worm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPJohtadZ6Q/U-Yn4dqFUdI/AAAAAAAAKVY/hbXsKznc5Z0/s1600/catalpa+worm.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The Catalpa Sphinx is considered native to Ohio, and I'm sure in historical times, they wandered into the state frequently from Indiana and Kentucky. But both the Southern and Northern Catalpa trees are non-native. Their range is just south and west of us. Catalpa, like Osage Orange <i>Maclura pomifera</i>, has been widely planted since settlement times for use as a natural hedgerow and for fence posts. For those who plant Catalpa for ornamental purposes, these caterpillars can defoliate an entire tree.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XXKz_AUmmYQ/U-YuS5tmPKI/AAAAAAAAKWI/Ly0KFJ-Ty2g/s1600/imperial+cat+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XXKz_AUmmYQ/U-YuS5tmPKI/AAAAAAAAKWI/Ly0KFJ-Ty2g/s1600/imperial+cat+side.jpg" height="276" width="400" /></a></div>The last instar of the <b>Imperial Silk Moth</b>, <i>Eacles imperialis</i>. To say it AGAIN, I showed the adult moth last month. So why don't I wait till I have both larvae and adult before posting? You know the answer to that. It's pure chance that I come across these things when I do. Robyn at Wahkeena is currently raising these on Pine. So sit back and enjoy all the color forms of the earlier instars.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KSYa1pyoJBM/U-Yt9h8X2AI/AAAAAAAAKVo/fE4XNzgbTrc/s1600/imperial+orange+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KSYa1pyoJBM/U-Yt9h8X2AI/AAAAAAAAKVo/fE4XNzgbTrc/s1600/imperial+orange+close.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A568GTCaVq8/U-YuDyF8HgI/AAAAAAAAKVw/vTjsCGY98s4/s1600/imperial+cat+olive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A568GTCaVq8/U-YuDyF8HgI/AAAAAAAAKVw/vTjsCGY98s4/s1600/imperial+cat+olive.jpg" height="303" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F0buwPYY-kk/U-YuHAI4-VI/AAAAAAAAKV4/p7jyDLom-zI/s1600/imperial+green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F0buwPYY-kk/U-YuHAI4-VI/AAAAAAAAKV4/p7jyDLom-zI/s1600/imperial+green.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CuY16jr0M_k/U-YuOogbUEI/AAAAAAAAKWA/1Hh7O50EOhg/s1600/imperial+black+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CuY16jr0M_k/U-YuOogbUEI/AAAAAAAAKWA/1Hh7O50EOhg/s1600/imperial+black+close.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br />DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-78363258549985624162014-08-09T11:32:00.001-04:002014-08-29T11:52:16.637-04:00A Prairie Insect Walk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mvx1O_3zCnA/U-LuP1syWHI/AAAAAAAAKPg/uuGhj_P79nc/s1600/three+DYC's.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mvx1O_3zCnA/U-LuP1syWHI/AAAAAAAAKPg/uuGhj_P79nc/s1600/three+DYC's.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>My plans to head for the western Ohio prairies isn't going to happen this year. So when all else fails, visit the prairie we manage ourselves. This is peak blooming time for prairies, and I'm always interested in seeing if anything new has appeared. This also means there will be plenty of insects to find.&nbsp;<i>Rudbeckia hirta, triloba, fulgida, </i>and<i> Ratibida pinnata </i>are all common at this site.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sw0SKhSYf4c/U-Lx1Z9rtlI/AAAAAAAAKPs/XoWzBueWQ1g/s1600/steeplebush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sw0SKhSYf4c/U-Lx1Z9rtlI/AAAAAAAAKPs/XoWzBueWQ1g/s1600/steeplebush.jpg" height="301" width="400" /></a></div>Every year when I inspect the grounds there is always something new in bloom. This year it is <b>Steeplebush</b>, <i>Spirea tomentosa</i>, a native member of the Rose family.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ayDMdhHMZ1k/U-LyszuLSkI/AAAAAAAAKQE/EFDwIxd5rTc/s1600/two-spotted+bumble+&amp;+honeybee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ayDMdhHMZ1k/U-LyszuLSkI/AAAAAAAAKQE/EFDwIxd5rTc/s1600/two-spotted+bumble+&amp;+honeybee.jpg" height="311" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gkp4d7dWyiI/U-LyxEMrz1I/AAAAAAAAKQM/nILOwLdOS-Y/s1600/two-spotted+bumble+Bombus+bimaculatus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gkp4d7dWyiI/U-LyxEMrz1I/AAAAAAAAKQM/nILOwLdOS-Y/s1600/two-spotted+bumble+Bombus+bimaculatus.jpg" height="281" width="400" /></a></div>The <b>Two-spotted Bumble Bee</b>, <i>Bombus bimaculatus</i>, busily probes a <b>Spiked Blazing-star</b>, <i>Liatris spicata</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YcCHX2-gybE/U-LyaIprGoI/AAAAAAAAKP0/K1elZHcIJjQ/s1600/carpenter+bee+eastern+Xylocopa+virginica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YcCHX2-gybE/U-LyaIprGoI/AAAAAAAAKP0/K1elZHcIJjQ/s1600/carpenter+bee+eastern+Xylocopa+virginica.jpg" height="292" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fsUuTt0UDg0/U-LyoHvMWLI/AAAAAAAAKP8/0IiClxqwwW0/s1600/carpenter+bee+on+nodding+onion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fsUuTt0UDg0/U-LyoHvMWLI/AAAAAAAAKP8/0IiClxqwwW0/s1600/carpenter+bee+on+nodding+onion.jpg" height="398" width="400" /></a></div>The <b>Eastern Carpenter Bee</b>, <i>Xylocopa virginica</i> on the other hand seemed to prefer feeding on the <b>Nodding Wild Onion</b>, <i>Alium cernuum</i>. Both these bees have dark spots on their thorax. Carpenter Bees have smooth shiny abdomens, while Bumble Bee abdomens are fuzzy.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OHdaeRo38H4/U-Ly1jenQlI/AAAAAAAAKQU/8wGTbuvUEuI/s1600/leafcutter+bee+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OHdaeRo38H4/U-Ly1jenQlI/AAAAAAAAKQU/8wGTbuvUEuI/s1600/leafcutter+bee+2.jpg" height="321" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yl-7CeSoQ7A/U-Ly4-HZRuI/AAAAAAAAKQc/7yfCBbo7EoU/s1600/leafcutter+under.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yl-7CeSoQ7A/U-Ly4-HZRuI/AAAAAAAAKQc/7yfCBbo7EoU/s1600/leafcutter+under.jpg" height="351" width="400" /></a></div><b>Narrow-leaved Mountain Mint</b>, <i>Pycnanthemum tenuifolium</i>, is another common plant that grabbed the attention of a <b>Leaf-cutter Bee</b>, (<i>Megachilidae</i>). Leaf-cutters can be recognized by the silky hairs on the <u>bottom</u> of their abdomen.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qzHJaDZr4o/U-L476WAnhI/AAAAAAAAKQs/gPcfICYpWu8/s1600/bumblee+bee+sphinx.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qzHJaDZr4o/U-L476WAnhI/AAAAAAAAKQs/gPcfICYpWu8/s1600/bumblee+bee+sphinx.JPG" height="348" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-phG6UKs98cs/U-L5F1fZwiI/AAAAAAAAKQ0/h50Cw0c-eFk/s1600/bumblebee+sphinx+Hemaris+diffinis.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-phG6UKs98cs/U-L5F1fZwiI/AAAAAAAAKQ0/h50Cw0c-eFk/s1600/bumblebee+sphinx+Hemaris+diffinis.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Butterflies and bees weren't the only things nectaring on the Blazing-stars. This is the <b>Bumble-bee</b> <b>Sphinx</b>, <i>Hemaris diffinis</i>. Of our two Clearwing Moths, this is the smaller, and with more black and yellow, versus the green and red of the Hummingbird Sphinx.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xc0TSmQ_rdg/U-L6YihGzZI/AAAAAAAAKRA/greaOd7jHp8/s1600/bush+katydid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xc0TSmQ_rdg/U-L6YihGzZI/AAAAAAAAKRA/greaOd7jHp8/s1600/bush+katydid.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Bush Kaydid</b>, <i>Scudderia curvicauda</i>? Katydids are not uncommon in prairies and open fields, though they prefer to frequent the Sumacs and other shrubby plants over the wildflowers. One of these days I need to learn how to recognize them all by sound.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tLbAk6-CqsY/U-L7t8c_q1I/AAAAAAAAKRM/FR3mtqO7ZwU/s1600/red-footed+robber+Promachus+rufipes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tLbAk6-CqsY/U-L7t8c_q1I/AAAAAAAAKRM/FR3mtqO7ZwU/s1600/red-footed+robber+Promachus+rufipes.jpg" height="400" width="332" /></a></div>Where there are Bees, there will be Robber Flies. Hunting them in the field is the <b>Red-footed</b> <b>Robber</b>, <i>Promachus&nbsp;rufipes</i>. A closely related species is <i>P. hinei</i>. They look the same, with one major difference. r<i>ufipies</i> has a <b>black</b> femur and red tibia. In henei, <b>both</b> leg parts are red.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gO0Eh1qQPzA/U-L9IFsDKcI/AAAAAAAAKRY/qbbh0dXCG78/s1600/agrimony,+small-flowered+agrimonia+parviflora.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gO0Eh1qQPzA/U-L9IFsDKcI/AAAAAAAAKRY/qbbh0dXCG78/s1600/agrimony,+small-flowered+agrimonia+parviflora.jpg" height="400" width="398" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myuS5ZtCfZc/U-L9P5_WSlI/AAAAAAAAKRg/hVMU_1l2Fjo/s1600/agrimony,+small-flowered.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myuS5ZtCfZc/U-L9P5_WSlI/AAAAAAAAKRg/hVMU_1l2Fjo/s1600/agrimony,+small-flowered.jpg" height="275" width="400" /></a></div><b>Small-flowered Agrimony</b>, <i>Agrimonia parviflora</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R2-dGSGMTlw/U-L9lkiwEII/AAAAAAAAKRo/B7i-PItcQlo/s1600/yellow+flax+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R2-dGSGMTlw/U-L9lkiwEII/AAAAAAAAKRo/B7i-PItcQlo/s1600/yellow+flax+close.jpg" height="330" width="400" /></a></div><b>Slender Yellow Flax</b>, <i>Linum virginanum</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nooXpMhmDUk/U-L92CqIsII/AAAAAAAAKRw/IOrxnOOJI68/s1600/water+horehound+Lycopus+americanus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nooXpMhmDUk/U-L92CqIsII/AAAAAAAAKRw/IOrxnOOJI68/s1600/water+horehound+Lycopus+americanus.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Water Horehound</b>, <i>Lycopus americanus</i>. All three of these plants have tiny flowers, which means you have to get up close, which means I get a chance to spot very tiny insects.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-snJTpBcDTLU/U-L-bzF_0OI/AAAAAAAAKR8/juSSTNqN5Iw/s1600/yellow-striped+stink+Mormidea+lugens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-snJTpBcDTLU/U-L-bzF_0OI/AAAAAAAAKR8/juSSTNqN5Iw/s1600/yellow-striped+stink+Mormidea+lugens.jpg" height="308" width="400" /></a></div>A <b>Yellow-striped Stink Bug</b>, <i>Mormidea lugens</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NrALNsRMORo/U-L_qJmRdCI/AAAAAAAAKSQ/9cHKzxXtGzA/s1600/diamondback+spittlebug+Lepyronia+quadrangularis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NrALNsRMORo/U-L_qJmRdCI/AAAAAAAAKSQ/9cHKzxXtGzA/s1600/diamondback+spittlebug+Lepyronia+quadrangularis.jpg" height="381" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-daDumxDY1G0/U-L_11SlFFI/AAAAAAAAKSY/fYskoTbyfH0/s1600/diamondback+spittlebug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-daDumxDY1G0/U-L_11SlFFI/AAAAAAAAKSY/fYskoTbyfH0/s1600/diamondback+spittlebug.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Diamonback Spittle-bug</b>, <i>Lepyronia quadrangularis</i>. With the ability to hop and fly away, the adults no longer need the protection of a bubbly froth. This species looks somewhat like a little Spring Peeper.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F34zlB9WUoI/U-MAy9ZGsaI/AAAAAAAAKSg/K0ac700KrB4/s1600/Anacampsis+agrimoniella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F34zlB9WUoI/U-MAy9ZGsaI/AAAAAAAAKSg/K0ac700KrB4/s1600/Anacampsis+agrimoniella.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></div><b>Striped Anacampsis</b>, <i>Anacampsis agrimoniella</i>. This little micro was wandering near the ground. I must admit, this is a very worn specimen, with many of the scales missing. It's usually a bit more colorful. To find a member of the Gelechiidae family that's easy to identify is the exception, not the rule. Most importantly, I finally found a new species for my list.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-355660143858506922014-08-09T11:17:00.002-04:002015-01-13T19:35:43.674-05:00More Moths<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eXnf2X05ZLM/U-FENILZWBI/AAAAAAAAKMg/vWY3Vk_ZJlo/s1600/tulip+tree+moth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eXnf2X05ZLM/U-FENILZWBI/AAAAAAAAKMg/vWY3Vk_ZJlo/s1600/tulip+tree+moth.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Last month I posted on photographing night time moths. Here are a few more. This is the <b>Tulip-tree Silk Moth</b>, <i>Callosamia angulifera</i>. I always jump to conclusions when I see one and yell out Promethia! I keep forgetting Promethia males have solid brown wings, and lack the white hammer shape. My bad.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JrQsDScTXIQ/U-FIhAKcewI/AAAAAAAAKMs/8tgay87HuSk/s1600/hook+tip,+arched+drepana+arcuata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JrQsDScTXIQ/U-FIhAKcewI/AAAAAAAAKMs/8tgay87HuSk/s1600/hook+tip,+arched+drepana+arcuata.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div><b>Arched Hook-tip</b>, <i>Drepana arcuata</i>. Similar to Inchworm moths, those fish hooks at the end of the wings put them into a separate family.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7A3VUy9f4jI/U-FJKHTzy3I/AAAAAAAAKM0/BITHw7rbXQ4/s1600/hebrew+polygrammate+hebraeicum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7A3VUy9f4jI/U-FJKHTzy3I/AAAAAAAAKM0/BITHw7rbXQ4/s1600/hebrew+polygrammate+hebraeicum.jpg" height="400" width="377" /></a></div>Looking very similar to the <b>Hebrew Moth</b>, <i>Polygrammate hebraeicum</i>,<i>&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;this Noctuid is the <b>Black Zigzag</b>, <i>Panthea acronyctoides</i>. It is larger than the Hebrew, and the thick black streaks in the middle and outer edge also serve to separate it. Black and white patterns always stand out on a sheet. I see this moth every year, and in our area they are always white. The moth is usually very black and gray elsewhere.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dSNL7Ck3wT8/U-FKw36vJ-I/AAAAAAAAKNA/93H1NS_MbL8/s1600/Adoneta+bicaudata+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dSNL7Ck3wT8/U-FKw36vJ-I/AAAAAAAAKNA/93H1NS_MbL8/s1600/Adoneta+bicaudata+4.jpg" height="382" width="400" /></a></div>Of particular interest to me was this slug moth (of course). I had a discussion about this moth with David and Laura Hughes. In the dark of night, it looks like the Purple Crested Slug A. spinuloides. Thank goodness for camera flash. Turns out it is <i>Adoneta bicaudata</i>, the other <b>Crested Slug</b>. So if you two are reading this post, this <b>IS</b> the rare one. The orange and yellow color is the key. Originally found in only three S.E. Ohio counties, we can now add Fairfield and Perry to the list. Still, it seems limited to our unglaciated corner of the state.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g9CNOuxjvWo/U-FM3BBQqtI/AAAAAAAAKNM/PhRpVzT4F58/s1600/Zanclognatha+laevigata.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g9CNOuxjvWo/U-FM3BBQqtI/AAAAAAAAKNM/PhRpVzT4F58/s1600/Zanclognatha+laevigata.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>This freshly hatched specimen and its color pattern had me confounded. Nothing matches exactly, but I believe it is <i>Zanclognatha laevigata</i>. I've posted on these before, and I always refer to them as the <b>Dog-face Owlets</b>. A more recent name is the <b>Variable Fan-foot</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RYRt2MjZ1y8/U-FOAnu0tLI/AAAAAAAAKNU/AoJ9j0JXQhQ/s1600/Lochmaeus+manteo+prominent+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RYRt2MjZ1y8/U-FOAnu0tLI/AAAAAAAAKNU/AoJ9j0JXQhQ/s1600/Lochmaeus+manteo+prominent+1.jpg" height="365" width="400" /></a></div>Another one that has me wondering. I'm actually too close for a good identification. I believe it is <i>Lochmaeus manteo</i>, the <b>Variable Oakleaf Prominent</b>. Variable is right, as I never seem to find two that are exactly the same. Note the bushy hairs on the face, wings, and legs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OsW1wEf2OAk/U-FSXKU34MI/AAAAAAAAKNg/dzJrQUrQaZw/s1600/Nemoria+bistriaria+red-fringed+emerald.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OsW1wEf2OAk/U-FSXKU34MI/AAAAAAAAKNg/dzJrQUrQaZw/s1600/Nemoria+bistriaria+red-fringed+emerald.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><i>Nemoria bistriaria</i>, <b>Red-fringed Emerald</b>. There are a lot of species of green emerald inchworms, and most are not pictured in field guides. Many are more southern in range. There is a MONA fascicle (Moths of North America) that illustrates these. While expensive, it is comprehensive, and has detailed descriptions on how to separate them all. The pink face is not unique to one species.<br /><br />In the recent Peterson guide, <i>N. rubrifrontaria</i> looks similar, but the records are rather scattered for the midwest, and it has not been officially recorded in Ohio. To keep them all apart, look for three things. 1) Is the wing edge fringed in red or just white. 2) Is the body spotted, striped or plain green. 3) Is the large white line in the wings straight (like this one) or zig-zag and wavy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RD8XNkrAXX8/U-FVoWeub-I/AAAAAAAAKNs/1WWmHr7h2RQ/s1600/Hydrelia+inornata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RD8XNkrAXX8/U-FVoWeub-I/AAAAAAAAKNs/1WWmHr7h2RQ/s1600/Hydrelia+inornata.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div><b>Unadorned Carpet</b>, <i>Hydrelia inornata</i>. One of the very small Inchworms.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-83VUcIo8r_s/U-FWJ7zrfEI/AAAAAAAAKN0/vXi4LtUV8vk/s1600/Pero+honestaria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-83VUcIo8r_s/U-FWJ7zrfEI/AAAAAAAAKN0/vXi4LtUV8vk/s1600/Pero+honestaria.jpg" height="295" width="400" /></a></div>I think I know why I left these photos for later. Many are difficult and confusing. This is yet another Inchworm from the genus Pero. This group of moths have the habit of folding the outer portion of their wing. There are three widely occurring species in Ohio. <i>P. ancetaria</i> usually has whitish outer wing margins, not burnt tan like these. In <i>P. morrisonaria</i>, the center of the wing and wing bases are mottled in orange, not solid chocolate brown like this. That leaves the <b>Honest Pero</b>, <i>Pero honestaria</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q3BOlL-8AL8/U-FZrDjusKI/AAAAAAAAKOA/0iarb8_o3Eg/s1600/azalea+sphinx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q3BOlL-8AL8/U-FZrDjusKI/AAAAAAAAKOA/0iarb8_o3Eg/s1600/azalea+sphinx.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yhNikO9pN2s/U-FZzfb2clI/AAAAAAAAKOI/HSPUiBgKcxQ/s1600/azalea+sphinx+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yhNikO9pN2s/U-FZzfb2clI/AAAAAAAAKOI/HSPUiBgKcxQ/s1600/azalea+sphinx+close.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Azalea Sphinx</b>, <i>Darapsa choerilus</i>. Because of the similar hind wings, it is sometimes confused with the Hog or Virginia Creeper Sphinx, <i>D. myron</i>. That moth has primarily green patches in the wings. Azalea Sphinx is an orange colored species dusted with pink-purple.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7HrOd3WV-w0/U-Fa6squBhI/AAAAAAAAKOU/FvCrQTIpcnI/s1600/blind-eyed+sphinx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7HrOd3WV-w0/U-Fa6squBhI/AAAAAAAAKOU/FvCrQTIpcnI/s1600/blind-eyed+sphinx.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P4hepRM3uXk/U-FbLJ2-__I/AAAAAAAAKOc/-oEsK1zSXPo/s1600/blind-eyed+open.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P4hepRM3uXk/U-FbLJ2-__I/AAAAAAAAKOc/-oEsK1zSXPo/s1600/blind-eyed+open.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>In my previous moth post I pictured the Small-eyed Sphinx. The eye spot in that species is surrounded by mostly a large yellow patch. This is the <b>Blinded</b> or <b>Blind-eyed Sphinx</b>, <i>Paonias excaecata</i>. The eye spot on this species is encased with a lot of thick black mascara, and the eye lid liner is bright pink.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5U82tCEDB9U/U-FdzM3h_HI/AAAAAAAAKOo/0bMW8WEkfK4/s1600/Xylesthia+pruniramiella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5U82tCEDB9U/U-FdzM3h_HI/AAAAAAAAKOo/0bMW8WEkfK4/s1600/Xylesthia+pruniramiella.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Clemens' Bark Moth</b>, <i>Xylesthia pruniramiella</i>. This micro moth, barely a quarter inch in length, is part of the Tineidae or Clothes Moth family. Look for the white cap of hair, the scale bumps down the back, and the upwardly curved back of the wings.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tQE6liyQ_oU/U-Fe8A7mk2I/AAAAAAAAKOw/gFMGVmYkMpg/s1600/phaneta+parmatana%3f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tQE6liyQ_oU/U-Fe8A7mk2I/AAAAAAAAKOw/gFMGVmYkMpg/s1600/phaneta+parmatana%3f.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>A Tortricid Leaf Roller moth. That's about as far as I can take it. This is an example of having to see the wings spread to identify the striped pattern at the wing tips not visible here. I never come across species where the two white patches actually <u>touch each other</u>. <i>Epiblema dorsisuffusana</i>&nbsp;is close. When you post a species you are not sure of, use the phrase "close to or near".<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMQupONHbyE/U-FgWW6fFbI/AAAAAAAAKO8/y6WvaIMmHkE/s1600/Acronicta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMQupONHbyE/U-FgWW6fFbI/AAAAAAAAKO8/y6WvaIMmHkE/s1600/Acronicta.jpg" height="363" width="400" /></a></div><i>Acronicta americana</i>, <b>American Dagger Moth</b>. Though it seemed smaller than normal, there are not many Dagger moths of this size, especially ones with such <u>dark hind wings</u>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ja_qr4pGV2Y/U-FjxV0Lg9I/AAAAAAAAKPQ/ut6H5QiXXyc/s1600/Photuris+lightningbug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ja_qr4pGV2Y/U-FjxV0Lg9I/AAAAAAAAKPQ/ut6H5QiXXyc/s1600/Photuris+lightningbug.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>A <b>Lightning-bug</b> or <b>Firefly </b>of the genus <i>Photuris</i>. This group of Fireflies are larger than most. The multiple yellow stripes help narrow it to a genus. This is the group whose females mimic the flashes of other species. She lures in males who think they will be mating with their own females, only to become a meal. Like a Mantis or Black Widow, consuming the male does enrich her, but there is another more important reason. Other species contain defensive chemicals that <i>Photuris</i> does not possess. After eating other species, she retains the defense, and those chemicals are also used to coat and protect her eggs.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-61809665110914995202014-08-04T21:56:00.000-04:002014-08-04T21:56:10.599-04:00Carex Sedges part 1, big and showy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-Es3maxOBk/U8wAjeGMZZI/AAAAAAAAJ4o/qhWDl9Swv3c/s1600/Carex+lurida+rhodo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-Es3maxOBk/U8wAjeGMZZI/AAAAAAAAJ4o/qhWDl9Swv3c/s1600/Carex+lurida+rhodo.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>It has been said that any sane person attempting to learn the 160+ species of <b>Carex </b>in Ohio must be insane. Who said that? I did! Seriously though, I want to thank Rick Gardner for showing me the 17 million, eh, I mean these nearly 50 species on our walks. Rick is trying to turn me into a sedge head, but like any subject, it's use it or lose it. Sedge season is May and June, so now I have to wait another year to practice in the field.<br /><br />Having never worked with sedges, I will approach this purely from a layman standpoint. Some technical terms are needed to describe parts of the plant, but I'll mention them frequently enough, you'll get used to it. I was going to go over these first with a couple of folks, but a number of other people said just post it and don't worry. So I will use some colorful language to put my own spin on this group. Like many other natural history topics, there are some species that can NOT be reliably identified by photographs, even if the pictures are labeled correctly. A hand lens is needed to see minute variations between species that may not be visible here. You may come away from these posts still thinking they all look alike, well, they do, ha!<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yxpt6kgDIoo/U8wGaDiLWnI/AAAAAAAAJ44/c5AEBNpkJsI/s1600/bulrush,+green+scirpus+atrovirens++2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yxpt6kgDIoo/U8wGaDiLWnI/AAAAAAAAJ44/c5AEBNpkJsI/s1600/bulrush,+green+scirpus+atrovirens++2.jpg" height="400" width="388" /></a></div><b>Green Bulrush</b>, <i>Scirpus atrovirens</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iVH1J3cFyos/U8wH6MZIvfI/AAAAAAAAJ5E/LrQpYZLmEnM/s1600/Luzula+echinata+woodrush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iVH1J3cFyos/U8wH6MZIvfI/AAAAAAAAJ5E/LrQpYZLmEnM/s1600/Luzula+echinata+woodrush.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Woodrush</b>, <i>Luzula echinata</i>. Rushes belong to the <u>Juncaceae</u> family, and can be mistaken for sedges.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UQbvVNcIr3Q/U8wIquynqsI/AAAAAAAAJ5U/WMEt7A7e7K0/s1600/Cyperus+flatsedge+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UQbvVNcIr3Q/U8wIquynqsI/AAAAAAAAJ5U/WMEt7A7e7K0/s1600/Cyperus+flatsedge+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Flatsedge</b>, <i>Cyperus</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8hW96bwh1do/U8wIkVqeWBI/AAAAAAAAJ5Q/P4QJ1oEPFno/s1600/Eleocharis+obtusa+Blunt+Spikesedge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8hW96bwh1do/U8wIkVqeWBI/AAAAAAAAJ5Q/P4QJ1oEPFno/s1600/Eleocharis+obtusa+Blunt+Spikesedge.JPG" height="262" width="400" /></a></div><b>Spikesedge,</b> <i>Eleocharis sp</i>. (obtusa perhaps?)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sHQd1jKy80A/U8wJco046rI/AAAAAAAAJ5g/MedTI2EDHw0/s1600/Twig-rush,+Cladium+mariscoides.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sHQd1jKy80A/U8wJco046rI/AAAAAAAAJ5g/MedTI2EDHw0/s1600/Twig-rush,+Cladium+mariscoides.jpg" height="353" width="400" /></a></div><b>Twig-rush,</b> <i>Cladium mariscoides</i>. Like Carex, these are all members of the <u>Cyperaceae</u> family. Sedges have edges, or are triangular. Rushes are round, and grasses are hollow. That is only a general rule for these groups. There are always a few that want to break the rules.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rw-kRcD1mCM/U8wLKc8nsII/AAAAAAAAJ5s/5U5Iqjb5JXE/s1600/C.+hirtifolia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rw-kRcD1mCM/U8wLKc8nsII/AAAAAAAAJ5s/5U5Iqjb5JXE/s1600/C.+hirtifolia.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></div><i>Carex hirtifolia.</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jg-SFiaGeBQ/U8wLVqDPO2I/AAAAAAAAJ50/BTsD7i6gmzw/s1600/Carex+pensylvanica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jg-SFiaGeBQ/U8wLVqDPO2I/AAAAAAAAJ50/BTsD7i6gmzw/s1600/Carex+pensylvanica.jpg" height="301" width="400" /></a></div><i>Carex pensylvanica.</i>&nbsp;Most Carex sedges are associated with wetlands, but there is a batch of them found in more upland woods. Some, like these, have rather brilliant flowering structures, and are often pictured in wildflower books.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LYAxjJoP-o0/U8wM1tMRHBI/AAAAAAAAJ6A/jpsmhj6Zmx4/s1600/carex+grayii+lorain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LYAxjJoP-o0/U8wM1tMRHBI/AAAAAAAAJ6A/jpsmhj6Zmx4/s1600/carex+grayii+lorain.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DCGyEucMZDw/U8wM_DZ1ieI/AAAAAAAAJ6I/bDuV-0tlE_g/s1600/Carex+grayii+rhodocove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DCGyEucMZDw/U8wM_DZ1ieI/AAAAAAAAJ6I/bDuV-0tlE_g/s1600/Carex+grayii+rhodocove.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The first group I'd like to cover are what I call the 'inflated' species. The following three species have the look of a <u>flail </u>or <u>mace</u>. This is <b>Gray's Sedge,</b> <i>Carex grayii</i>. Those balloon like structures that look inflated and pointy are called <i>perigynia</i>. They house the <i>achene</i> or seed. On Gray's Sedge, these points radiate out in an almost 360 degree fashion. To me they also have the look of those old <u>deep sea mines</u>. This is a common species found through much of Ohio.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BpTvXgilvAU/U8wqaPIy1oI/AAAAAAAAJ_I/Z2IbQw3X3Bw/s1600/C.+intumescens+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BpTvXgilvAU/U8wqaPIy1oI/AAAAAAAAJ_I/Z2IbQw3X3Bw/s1600/C.+intumescens+3.jpg" height="321" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hh5-FCL0Zf0/U8wPN4ixEmI/AAAAAAAAJ6c/4ABI-DBsHHs/s1600/C.+intumescens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hh5-FCL0Zf0/U8wPN4ixEmI/AAAAAAAAJ6c/4ABI-DBsHHs/s1600/C.+intumescens.jpg" height="378" width="400" /></a></div><b>Bladder Sedge</b>, <i>Carex intumescens</i>. Looking very much like <i>grayii</i>, the Bladder Sedge has perigynia that spread outward and upward, but <u>rarely downward</u>. So instead of appearing round, it looks like the lower half has been cut off, giving it a flat base.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QnOQ-jp_fEE/U8wQ6qBopeI/AAAAAAAAJ6o/JL2HJYle_Ao/s1600/C.+louisianica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QnOQ-jp_fEE/U8wQ6qBopeI/AAAAAAAAJ6o/JL2HJYle_Ao/s1600/C.+louisianica.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o0-h_6v3xJQ/U8wRHGxKFKI/AAAAAAAAJ6w/JnPc7kwTwfw/s1600/C.+louisianica+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o0-h_6v3xJQ/U8wRHGxKFKI/AAAAAAAAJ6w/JnPc7kwTwfw/s1600/C.+louisianica+L.K..jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Louisiana Sedge,</b> <i>Carex louisianica</i>. Found at Lake Katherine, this is an extremely rare species in Ohio. It's not globose nor semicircular. The spikes are narrower or elongate, as if the perigynia are stacked one on top of the other.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EdEocamsWzI/U8wSQpNgzjI/AAAAAAAAJ68/uLSJk-GaMd4/s1600/grayii+example.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EdEocamsWzI/U8wSQpNgzjI/AAAAAAAAJ68/uLSJk-GaMd4/s1600/grayii+example.jpg" height="361" width="400" /></a></div>Using my warped imagination, let's compare the three using that deep sea mine I mentioned. With the spikes radiating out in every direction, this would be <i><b>Carex grayii</b></i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-acytAM_1YPQ/U8wSqpfvqjI/AAAAAAAAJ7E/wRqVEOhgPsg/s1600/intumescens+example.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-acytAM_1YPQ/U8wSqpfvqjI/AAAAAAAAJ7E/wRqVEOhgPsg/s1600/intumescens+example.jpg" height="400" width="377" /></a></div>With the bottom part of the mine cut off, you have <i><b>Carex intumescens</b></i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MG9E8AGc3RA/U8wS4n8SaFI/AAAAAAAAJ7M/cetq_vydvD8/s1600/louisiana+example.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MG9E8AGc3RA/U8wS4n8SaFI/AAAAAAAAJ7M/cetq_vydvD8/s1600/louisiana+example.jpg" height="366" width="400" /></a></div>With the entire fruiting structure elongated, you have <i><b>Carex louisianica</b></i>. Okay, enough of that.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kkbV2qlPVOE/U8wTU1UKMrI/AAAAAAAAJ7U/LE5yqonuTR0/s1600/C.+tuckermanii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kkbV2qlPVOE/U8wTU1UKMrI/AAAAAAAAJ7U/LE5yqonuTR0/s1600/C.+tuckermanii.jpg" height="322" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wOMrP9WveLo/U8wTgwBkICI/AAAAAAAAJ7c/Ffkcpdgmkz4/s1600/C.+tuckermanii+Lake+Kath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wOMrP9WveLo/U8wTgwBkICI/AAAAAAAAJ7c/Ffkcpdgmkz4/s1600/C.+tuckermanii+Lake+Kath.jpg" height="348" width="400" /></a></div><b>Tuckerman's Sedge</b>, <i>Carex tuckermanii</i>. Instead of all the perigynia clustered together, these are stretched out, giving the appearance of a long blow up party balloon. Each perigynia is very round, but suddenly blunts to a long beak. The upper most fruits are often erect. Lower ones may hang to the side because they have a longer stem or <i>peduncle</i>. The achene inside is different from other sedges in having a notch or indentation, giving it a kidney bean shape. You need a hand lens to see that.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FkpmGjA3JWM/U8wVC6x-OdI/AAAAAAAAJ7o/IFkXrVrS45k/s1600/carex+squarrosa+canfield+3b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FkpmGjA3JWM/U8wVC6x-OdI/AAAAAAAAJ7o/IFkXrVrS45k/s1600/carex+squarrosa+canfield+3b.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dIEqc-Cj7_A/U8wVLbVFL3I/AAAAAAAAJ7w/Nc4y64yIOpk/s1600/Carex+squarrosa+sedge+4c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dIEqc-Cj7_A/U8wVLbVFL3I/AAAAAAAAJ7w/Nc4y64yIOpk/s1600/Carex+squarrosa+sedge+4c.jpg" height="257" width="400" /></a></div><b>Squarrose Sedge</b>, <i>Carex squarrosa</i>. We leave the balloon sedges behind and move into the group with a more 'tighter packed' look. This and the following species are what I call the Gum-ball or Button sedges. The short round head is distinct, and the vast majority of plants show only <u>one</u> fruiting head at the end of the stem.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tXb4emb5g8E/U8wW-gxIG1I/AAAAAAAAJ78/3O2PAA5JORQ/s1600/C.+typhina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tXb4emb5g8E/U8wW-gxIG1I/AAAAAAAAJ78/3O2PAA5JORQ/s1600/C.+typhina.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IF4AuYshy2Y/U8wXIhX2USI/AAAAAAAAJ8E/6hoXOBa8FRQ/s1600/C.+typhina+Lake+Kath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IF4AuYshy2Y/U8wXIhX2USI/AAAAAAAAJ8E/6hoXOBa8FRQ/s1600/C.+typhina+Lake+Kath.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Cattail Sedge</b>, <i>Carex typhina</i>. Some say the fruit reminds them of a mini cattail. I don't really see that. Though it does grow tall, and has wide leaves like a cattail. To me it is just a more <u>elongated</u> <i>squarrosa</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GMw9DkY54mc/U8wYjOwzYLI/AAAAAAAAJ8Q/bbMvuJrdmUk/s1600/typhina-squarosa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GMw9DkY54mc/U8wYjOwzYLI/AAAAAAAAJ8Q/bbMvuJrdmUk/s1600/typhina-squarosa.jpg" height="258" width="400" /></a></div>When you put them side by side, you can notice three differences. 1) t<i>yphina </i>has a longer fruit head. 2) <i>typhina </i>will have 2-3 fruiting spikes, <i>squarrosa</i> only one. 3) The spiny beaks of <i>typhina</i> will point outward or upward. The bottom spines or beaks of <i>squarrosa </i>point downward.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0RwqKq8hmdI/U8waMDox68I/AAAAAAAAJ8c/1WRvybVQbqM/s1600/dogbane+tiger+Cycnia+tenera.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0RwqKq8hmdI/U8waMDox68I/AAAAAAAAJ8c/1WRvybVQbqM/s1600/dogbane+tiger+Cycnia+tenera.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4eUn-NkKB8k/U8waU5PXONI/AAAAAAAAJ8k/4PfkU0TkbSM/s1600/Carex+comosa+chauncey+june+twentyone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4eUn-NkKB8k/U8waU5PXONI/AAAAAAAAJ8k/4PfkU0TkbSM/s1600/Carex+comosa+chauncey+june+twentyone.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>This next batch I eloquently call the 'caterpillar sedges'. I think you can see why.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OPZc7negweI/U8wa_3ifReI/AAAAAAAAJ8s/icWJqxs_08E/s1600/C.+comosa+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OPZc7negweI/U8wa_3ifReI/AAAAAAAAJ8s/icWJqxs_08E/s1600/C.+comosa+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YjUoMRVv1Qs/U8wbN0OCYuI/AAAAAAAAJ80/4WpzNVT2WtA/s1600/Carex+comosa+sedge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YjUoMRVv1Qs/U8wbN0OCYuI/AAAAAAAAJ80/4WpzNVT2WtA/s1600/Carex+comosa+sedge.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-igPoNEHZ0FI/U8wbTXnjpUI/AAAAAAAAJ88/XTm7ILQnoz0/s1600/carex+comosa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-igPoNEHZ0FI/U8wbTXnjpUI/AAAAAAAAJ88/XTm7ILQnoz0/s1600/carex+comosa.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Long-hair </b>or<b> Bottlebrush Sedge</b>, <i>Carex comosa</i>. Appropriate common names to be sure. If any species ever looked like a green caterpillar, it's this one. The spikelets are very long and crammed with a <u>huge</u> number of perigynia. The base of each perigynia is small, not globose like the inflated species. The beaks at the top of the perigynium spread out in all directions, giving it a <u>fuzzy</u> appearance. With a hand lens, they look like a bunch of baby birds with their mouths open.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yiQ5dMadvdQ/U8wdYKD1zUI/AAAAAAAAJ9I/9DehKIvjQ8U/s1600/carex+vesicaria+canfield+2c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yiQ5dMadvdQ/U8wdYKD1zUI/AAAAAAAAJ9I/9DehKIvjQ8U/s1600/carex+vesicaria+canfield+2c.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Blister Sedge</b>, <i>Carex vesicaria</i>. Another elongated fruiting species. The beaks do NOT spread out like <i>comosa</i>, so there is no fuzzy look. The perigynia are fewer and less crowded. The bases of each are <u>more swollen</u>, and they taper to a sharper point.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-slsKsiYyCuk/U8weTWRgJWI/AAAAAAAAJ9Q/tgcn8s5TFRQ/s1600/C.+vesicaria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-slsKsiYyCuk/U8weTWRgJWI/AAAAAAAAJ9Q/tgcn8s5TFRQ/s1600/C.+vesicaria.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>This second picture shows a more typical narrow form. Late in the season the color fades and they look more like a bunch of onions. The perigynia appear more uniform, as if arranged in rows. The first time I identified this one they were yellowish, and reminded me of an ear of corn.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j9ddJQqQFr8/U8we-1K1duI/AAAAAAAAJ9Y/GhatiE_oKb0/s1600/carex+frankii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j9ddJQqQFr8/U8we-1K1duI/AAAAAAAAJ9Y/GhatiE_oKb0/s1600/carex+frankii.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a01N-d2ps4k/U8wfF5JyRqI/AAAAAAAAJ9g/yfemMP4lecE/s1600/carex+frankii+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a01N-d2ps4k/U8wfF5JyRqI/AAAAAAAAJ9g/yfemMP4lecE/s1600/carex+frankii+2.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><b>Frank's Sedge </b>or <b>Bristly Sedge</b>, <i>Carex frankii</i>. This wetland sedge has fruit that tend to grow erect and hug the stem. The perigynia look flat or deflated, and compressed together, each one forming a diamond pattern. The beaks are long and thin, giving it a bristly or hairy appearance. On similar looking sedges, the pistillate and staminate spikelets (male &amp; female), grow together. On Frank's Sedge, the staminate spikelet is on a <u>separate</u> stem.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DSMfjbCGjNo/U8wiFrdiXII/AAAAAAAAJ9s/VNr56thbx8A/s1600/C.+lurida+2+wahk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DSMfjbCGjNo/U8wiFrdiXII/AAAAAAAAJ9s/VNr56thbx8A/s1600/C.+lurida+2+wahk.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V12KryuFKp8/U8wiOEOH_1I/AAAAAAAAJ90/BdvXfFrDkds/s1600/C.+lurida+chauncey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V12KryuFKp8/U8wiOEOH_1I/AAAAAAAAJ90/BdvXfFrDkds/s1600/C.+lurida+chauncey.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Sallow Sedge</b>, <i>Carex lurida</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kj75YglVuMI/U8wii78px5I/AAAAAAAAJ98/LrD2esBXmjI/s1600/C.+lupulina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kj75YglVuMI/U8wii78px5I/AAAAAAAAJ98/LrD2esBXmjI/s1600/C.+lupulina.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvIL0auPB18/U8wiuiyaRzI/AAAAAAAAJ-E/foN1oS1EBL0/s1600/Carex+lupulina+lake+hope+1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvIL0auPB18/U8wiuiyaRzI/AAAAAAAAJ-E/foN1oS1EBL0/s1600/Carex+lupulina+lake+hope+1b.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F_8ILjbR_v4/U8wi3LN1u6I/AAAAAAAAJ-M/aZv4smADLYY/s1600/Carex+lupulina+lake+hope+1c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F_8ILjbR_v4/U8wi3LN1u6I/AAAAAAAAJ-M/aZv4smADLYY/s1600/Carex+lupulina+lake+hope+1c.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Hop Sedge</b>, <i>Carex lupulina</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4yFtsmNgUNc/U8wt6TKa3oI/AAAAAAAAJ_U/AQjo4MHMLbg/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4yFtsmNgUNc/U8wt6TKa3oI/AAAAAAAAJ_U/AQjo4MHMLbg/s1600/Slide1.jpg" height="400" width="303" /></a></div>Sallow Sedge above, Hop Sedge below. These are not quite balloon like, and not quite caterpillar like. I call them Porcupine Sedges. I suppose you could call them spiny 'stubby' caterpillars. Both of these are common around the state. They are short peduncled and tend to hug the stem. Hop Sedge does have inflated bases, but nothing like the <i>grayii</i> group. You notice the sharp spiny look before anything else, at least I do. Same goes for <i>lurida</i>. With age <i>lupulina</i> turns white to brown, while <i>lurida</i> turns yellow.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwQ_sYwK1B8/U8wlEMiOPfI/AAAAAAAAJ-g/bu7YXklN5as/s1600/hystericina+%3f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwQ_sYwK1B8/U8wlEMiOPfI/AAAAAAAAJ-g/bu7YXklN5as/s1600/hystericina+%3f.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div>This may be another Porcupine Sedge known as <i>Carex hystericina</i>. Rick was unsure about this one and stated, as I so often do, that identification by a photo alone can be unreliable. We didn't have the specimen in hand. <i>hystericina </i>has a shorter fruiting body than the previous two. It looks more like a 'shriveled' caterpillar. It has long peduncles, which results in the fruit usually drooping like this.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X39zVmhOVsk/U8wmZ6pkDsI/AAAAAAAAJ-s/XMglZgq4TPI/s1600/sedge+lake+kath+crinita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X39zVmhOVsk/U8wmZ6pkDsI/AAAAAAAAJ-s/XMglZgq4TPI/s1600/sedge+lake+kath+crinita.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KtzP65fZdMA/U8wmmLwv0JI/AAAAAAAAJ-0/-xzr8aoxWcw/s1600/Carex+crinita+sedge+lake+hope+2c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KtzP65fZdMA/U8wmmLwv0JI/AAAAAAAAJ-0/-xzr8aoxWcw/s1600/Carex+crinita+sedge+lake+hope+2c.jpg" height="400" width="342" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NSpcJGHKLzk/U8wmt1smnaI/AAAAAAAAJ-8/4T4J56fsjwM/s1600/Carex+crinita+drooping+1+rhodocove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NSpcJGHKLzk/U8wmt1smnaI/AAAAAAAAJ-8/4T4J56fsjwM/s1600/Carex+crinita+drooping+1+rhodocove.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>This one is rather unique, so I don't need to put it in a group. It's easy to identify. Now watch someone tell me there are a bunch of others that look like this that I just haven't seen, that would be my luck. The <b>Fringed Sedge</b>, <i>Carex crinita</i>. People could mistake this for a Foxtail, a Canada Rye, or other drooping grasses. The perigynia are slightly inflated, but from a distance appear flattened. They have a short beak. The hair like look is due to the <u>awn like scales</u> that protrude between the fruit.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-40989240076538199682014-08-04T21:52:00.000-04:002014-08-04T21:52:56.436-04:00Carex Sedges part 2-star, spiny & bushy species<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8dpbIE0N-eI/U8wzUTu0vQI/AAAAAAAAKA8/-DvFb6q1XTQ/s1600/starshape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8dpbIE0N-eI/U8wzUTu0vQI/AAAAAAAAKA8/-DvFb6q1XTQ/s1600/starshape.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5sYEzw_l-Q/U8wzYaicjcI/AAAAAAAAKBE/LJhVxE4w4Q8/s1600/Pinwheel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5sYEzw_l-Q/U8wzYaicjcI/AAAAAAAAKBE/LJhVxE4w4Q8/s1600/Pinwheel.jpg" height="291" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V2tKzArGD-Y/U8wzhno95JI/AAAAAAAAKBM/SVAw9JJb83k/s1600/star+sedge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V2tKzArGD-Y/U8wzhno95JI/AAAAAAAAKBM/SVAw9JJb83k/s1600/star+sedge.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>I think of star shapes or pinwheels when I see the next two species. Fruits spread outward like a <u>rosette</u>. Perigynia on these are much smaller than anything posted in part 1.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j7hwMWuQx64/U8w2R8LulDI/AAAAAAAAKB4/AvUtuX_bdSY/s1600/C.+rosea+&amp;+arrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j7hwMWuQx64/U8w2R8LulDI/AAAAAAAAKB4/AvUtuX_bdSY/s1600/C.+rosea+&amp;+arrow.jpg" height="342" width="400" /></a></div><b>Curly Rose Sedge</b>, <i>Carex rosea</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kY5Ne4ndWE8/U8w0vFNQUoI/AAAAAAAAKBc/C6t6ujlJffo/s1600/C.+radiata+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kY5Ne4ndWE8/U8w0vFNQUoI/AAAAAAAAKBc/C6t6ujlJffo/s1600/C.+radiata+2.jpg" height="392" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GhuporuR5w0/U8w05HDvC7I/AAAAAAAAKBk/g7Yyhl03W2Q/s1600/C.+radiata+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GhuporuR5w0/U8w05HDvC7I/AAAAAAAAKBk/g7Yyhl03W2Q/s1600/C.+radiata+L.K..jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a>&nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-coiu6IdMgU4/U8w1EpfOKPI/AAAAAAAAKBs/RMUa8qPkbyk/s1600/C.+radiata.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-coiu6IdMgU4/U8w1EpfOKPI/AAAAAAAAKBs/RMUa8qPkbyk/s1600/C.+radiata.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Star Sedge</b>, <i>Carex radiata</i>. Although they <u>can </u>be found in wetter areas, these two are woodland species. Often when you consider habitat, you can eliminate that long list of endless or look alike species. Fruits are spread out along the stem and radiate outward in a star pattern. The styles of <i>rosea</i> are pinkish-red and recurved (see arrow above). They tend to be straight on <i>radiata</i>. The perigynia of both have ridges along the edge, giving them a flattened look.<br /><br />I'm treating them together because the visible differences are minute, and these were once combined as the same species. <i>radiata</i> is occasional in S.E. Ohio, more common up north, more often seen in wet woods, and has leaves 2mm wide.&nbsp;<i>rosea</i> is found statewide, in drier sites, and the leaves are 3mm wide. The swollen portion of the perigynium is 4mm in <i>radiata</i>, only 2mm in <i>rosea</i>. Have fun with that.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g_z44cq1Dug/U8xAcCS9f1I/AAAAAAAAKCI/nWzfBZxjjlw/s1600/sandspur1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g_z44cq1Dug/U8xAcCS9f1I/AAAAAAAAKCI/nWzfBZxjjlw/s1600/sandspur1.jpg" height="276" width="400" /></a></div>I call this next group the Spiny Sedges. That is because they remind me of this old Florida nemesis. This is <b>Sandspur</b> (Cenchrus). If you go barefoot in the south, you'll soon be familiar with this. While these sedges don't get stuck in your skin, they have 'the look'. This group has only TWO stigmas rather than the more common three on their achenes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8fqF36Teac8/U8xCBZV7XnI/AAAAAAAAKCU/cSiNupq-lTk/s1600/C.+sparganioides+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8fqF36Teac8/U8xCBZV7XnI/AAAAAAAAKCU/cSiNupq-lTk/s1600/C.+sparganioides+2.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qFeWPsPCNWw/U8xCOPT9e1I/AAAAAAAAKCc/5GwXxsjf05A/s1600/C.+sparganioides+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qFeWPsPCNWw/U8xCOPT9e1I/AAAAAAAAKCc/5GwXxsjf05A/s1600/C.+sparganioides+3.jpg" height="270" width="400" /></a></div><b>Bur-reed Sedge</b>, <i>Carex sparganioides</i>. Common in woodland situations, less so in wetlands. The way to separate it from the other spiky ones is to start at the top of the stem. The fruit are clustered together, but as you go down they become farther apart, sometimes with wide spaces between them. The round shape and distance between them are the source of the common and latin names. Individual perigynia are <u>boat shaped</u>. Concave in the middle, with curled up edges.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iQcCKyFd1Rk/U8xFSnBun2I/AAAAAAAAKCo/otmPFcWkusU/s1600/C.+aggregata+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iQcCKyFd1Rk/U8xFSnBun2I/AAAAAAAAKCo/otmPFcWkusU/s1600/C.+aggregata+2.jpg" height="400" width="338" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-exEWRBJhMGc/U8xFbygGxkI/AAAAAAAAKCw/LvvOeo8kQPc/s1600/C.+aggregata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-exEWRBJhMGc/U8xFbygGxkI/AAAAAAAAKCw/LvvOeo8kQPc/s1600/C.+aggregata.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div><b>Clustered Sedge</b>, <i>Carex aggregata</i>. The name suggests the spikes are all aggregated or crowded at the upper end. That's fine in separating from the above species, but there are still others who crowd their fruit like this. Rather than boat shaped, the perigynia are more flattened. With a hand lens you'll see both these species have <u>wide </u>shaped perigynia with <u>short blunt beaks</u>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sc6l4kojQYw/U8xIDUtBbXI/AAAAAAAAKC8/V7Nfz7Oh9nQ/s1600/C.+stipata+Prickly+sedge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sc6l4kojQYw/U8xIDUtBbXI/AAAAAAAAKC8/V7Nfz7Oh9nQ/s1600/C.+stipata+Prickly+sedge.jpg" height="258" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4bIbM8CnOfk/U8xJZbFSbfI/AAAAAAAAKDY/lTeLJI-9a5M/s1600/C.+stipata+wahk+2+arrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4bIbM8CnOfk/U8xJZbFSbfI/AAAAAAAAKDY/lTeLJI-9a5M/s1600/C.+stipata+wahk+2+arrow.jpg" height="261" width="400" /></a></div><b>Prickly Sedge,</b> <i>Carex stipata</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CXnO5HT-I1o/U8xIknQ_nWI/AAAAAAAAKDM/JjIGm5ykgE0/s1600/C.+laevivaginata+wahk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CXnO5HT-I1o/U8xIknQ_nWI/AAAAAAAAKDM/JjIGm5ykgE0/s1600/C.+laevivaginata+wahk.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Smooth-sheath Sedge</b>, <i>Carex laevivaginata</i>. Once again I am guilty of treating two species together because of their similarities. Unlike the last two species, these have <u>longer pointed</u> beaks on the perigynia. It is stated that <i>stipata</i> has a longer fruit cluster than <i>laevivaginata</i>, and the individual perigynia are <u>pale </u>colored at their base (see arrows above).<br /><br />The real difference between these two is in the stem sheath, which I'm afraid I didn't photograph. Prickly Sedge has leaf sheaths that are cross-puckered, which means it has horizontal wrinkles. Smooth-sheath Sedge does not, hence the common name.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJBNbbHThvs/U8xLbfInChI/AAAAAAAAKDk/RKUr6hWBGRs/s1600/stipata-laevivaginata-normalis+arrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJBNbbHThvs/U8xLbfInChI/AAAAAAAAKDk/RKUr6hWBGRs/s1600/stipata-laevivaginata-normalis+arrow.jpg" height="387" width="400" /></a></div>To review these last several species, sparganioides, aggregata, and in this case <i>C. normalis</i> on the right, all have a wider perigynia ending in an abrupt tip (see blue arrow). stipata and laevivaginata, the two on the left, have long tapering beaks, giving them a sharper appearance (orange arrow).<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Op-MPlrBya4/U8xOTjNVn9I/AAAAAAAAKDw/lZPtl8uC4tQ/s1600/C.+annectens+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Op-MPlrBya4/U8xOTjNVn9I/AAAAAAAAKDw/lZPtl8uC4tQ/s1600/C.+annectens+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rb7Whr3a9ps/U8xOexuu6VI/AAAAAAAAKD4/3N-fn2jHdH4/s1600/C.+annectens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rb7Whr3a9ps/U8xOexuu6VI/AAAAAAAAKD4/3N-fn2jHdH4/s1600/C.+annectens.jpg" height="256" width="400" /></a></div><b>Yellowfruit Sedge</b>, <i>Carex annectens</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C0btNfJFUIo/U8xPUpiPuTI/AAAAAAAAKEA/Mz-9PfifEpc/s1600/DSC_0098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C0btNfJFUIo/U8xPUpiPuTI/AAAAAAAAKEA/Mz-9PfifEpc/s1600/DSC_0098.jpg" height="283" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EopLS5weC14/U8xPim2ZLnI/AAAAAAAAKEI/s3NP2RtCmwU/s1600/carex+vulpinoidea+canfield+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EopLS5weC14/U8xPim2ZLnI/AAAAAAAAKEI/s3NP2RtCmwU/s1600/carex+vulpinoidea+canfield+1.jpg" height="317" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Le4TH652dzY/U8xPvcbpUKI/AAAAAAAAKEQ/3xzh8aTX9PU/s1600/DSC_0094+arrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Le4TH652dzY/U8xPvcbpUKI/AAAAAAAAKEQ/3xzh8aTX9PU/s1600/DSC_0094+arrow.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Brown Fox Sedge</b>, <i>Carex vulpinoidea</i>. I also want to discuss both of these together. Each of these have large clusters of fruit and long horizontal bracts (black arrow). Their perigynia are round on the bottom, flat on top. The beak is short when compared to the <u>length</u> of the perigynia. <i>vulpinoidea</i> beaks are the longer of the two. Speaking of long, Fox Sedge has a <u>greater amount</u> of fruit spread along the main stem, more so than ANY other species. On <i>annectens</i> the spikelets are more tightly compact, stacked in an alternate pattern around the stem.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dfss7btB7pk/U8xR2Nm4lLI/AAAAAAAAKEc/El8IhMf90w0/s1600/annectens+sedge+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dfss7btB7pk/U8xR2Nm4lLI/AAAAAAAAKEc/El8IhMf90w0/s1600/annectens+sedge+4.JPG" height="292" width="400" /></a></div><i>C. annectens</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7z7cfUYCFus/U8xSDqqVwZI/AAAAAAAAKEk/Dx9A-F-G6xM/s1600/C.+vulpinoidea+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7z7cfUYCFus/U8xSDqqVwZI/AAAAAAAAKEk/Dx9A-F-G6xM/s1600/C.+vulpinoidea+4.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMtVba42x-g/U8xSNULzJCI/AAAAAAAAKEs/gRZVBllyQic/s1600/C.+vulpinoidea+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMtVba42x-g/U8xSNULzJCI/AAAAAAAAKEs/gRZVBllyQic/s1600/C.+vulpinoidea+5.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OqR-s2e1F2o/U8xSSRaLqBI/AAAAAAAAKE0/-tyJkBn7kJM/s1600/C.+vulpinoidea+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OqR-s2e1F2o/U8xSSRaLqBI/AAAAAAAAKE0/-tyJkBn7kJM/s1600/C.+vulpinoidea+6.jpg" height="333" width="400" /></a></div><i>C. vulpinoidea</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-unrGSho-J-0/U8xSeGnsCWI/AAAAAAAAKE8/gcCt17Pywos/s1600/annectens+&amp;+vulpinoidea.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-unrGSho-J-0/U8xSeGnsCWI/AAAAAAAAKE8/gcCt17Pywos/s1600/annectens+&amp;+vulpinoidea.JPG" height="383" width="400" /></a></div>In this second set of pics, look for other differences. The fruit of <i>annectens </i>turns yellow with age, while <i>vulpinoidea</i> turns brown. The leaves grow <u>well past </u>the fruiting stalk on <i>vulpinoidea</i>, they are shorter than the fruit on <i>annectens</i>. <i>vulpinoidea</i> is much more common and found state wide.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pSoYVLDT8lA/U8xVU_MXNtI/AAAAAAAAKFI/K0tvcitQA2o/s1600/Banaue_Philippines_Handmade-brooms-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pSoYVLDT8lA/U8xVU_MXNtI/AAAAAAAAKFI/K0tvcitQA2o/s1600/Banaue_Philippines_Handmade-brooms-01.jpg" height="337" width="400" /></a></div>Continuing with my unorthodox classifications, I call these the bushy or broom-like sedges. (Wickipedia photo)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JFoZAHdy7D4/U8xV6U2RByI/AAAAAAAAKFQ/oStEQtac-1I/s1600/C.+cephalophora+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JFoZAHdy7D4/U8xV6U2RByI/AAAAAAAAKFQ/oStEQtac-1I/s1600/C.+cephalophora+2.jpg" height="365" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5AbuFNr3E8o/U8xWFCy8LfI/AAAAAAAAKFY/DpJmCBBLmzw/s1600/C.+cephalophora.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5AbuFNr3E8o/U8xWFCy8LfI/AAAAAAAAKFY/DpJmCBBLmzw/s1600/C.+cephalophora.jpg" height="308" width="400" /></a></div><i>Carex cephalophora</i>. <b>Short-headed Sedge</b>, but there are lots of other common names. Compared to the others in this group, it has the shortest and smallest amount of spikelets clustered into a little head. While these photos show very few, there can be more, but still less than the other species. These remind me of the wildflower fruits known as Avens.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ter7DJh4FjY/U8xXX0i_wGI/AAAAAAAAKFk/ParO6j0nH0c/s1600/C.+cristatella+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ter7DJh4FjY/U8xXX0i_wGI/AAAAAAAAKFk/ParO6j0nH0c/s1600/C.+cristatella+L.K..jpg" height="385" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FdGCMB4g_SY/U8xXfp1SzeI/AAAAAAAAKFs/VvPk-M5u91c/s1600/C.+cristatella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FdGCMB4g_SY/U8xXfp1SzeI/AAAAAAAAKFs/VvPk-M5u91c/s1600/C.+cristatella.jpg" height="323" width="400" /></a></div><b>Crested Sedge</b>, <i>Carex cristatella</i>. Clusters of round stemless spikelets are crowded together at the top, with 1 or 2 loosely below. Each perigynia radiates outward, giving it a bushy appearance. The tops are spiky, and resemble a bird crest.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6LnUQmgACC8/U8xYayd33_I/AAAAAAAAKF0/RFk7sWFnBXs/s1600/C.+tribuloides.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6LnUQmgACC8/U8xYayd33_I/AAAAAAAAKF0/RFk7sWFnBXs/s1600/C.+tribuloides.jpg" height="380" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dlNBr3vSX8o/U8xYkGgpOII/AAAAAAAAKF8/njKVChpGZIw/s1600/tribuloides+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dlNBr3vSX8o/U8xYkGgpOII/AAAAAAAAKF8/njKVChpGZIw/s1600/tribuloides+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Broom Sedge</b>, <i>Carex tribuloides</i>. This prickly or bushy looking species does NOT have all its fruit clustered at the ends, but spread out and with alternating spikelets along the stem. Each perigynia is flattened and ends in a pointy beak. I welcome more information on these. I think my descriptions are a bit vague, and without enough detail. Members of the Ovales group are difficult to do by photos. Most characters are hand lens minute.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdLkr4vyHG4/U8xZx4uZrGI/AAAAAAAAKGI/0CN7Y2-fekw/s1600/C.+normalis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdLkr4vyHG4/U8xZx4uZrGI/AAAAAAAAKGI/0CN7Y2-fekw/s1600/C.+normalis.jpg" height="331" width="400" /></a></div><b>Straw Sedge</b>, <i>Carex normalis</i>. A woodland rather than wetland species. Spikes are all gathered around the end of the stem, but loosely arranged. The perigynia border on looking more spiny than bushy.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kKkUFmUcDsM/U8xcRsCodAI/AAAAAAAAKGk/haNQmY84TwU/s1600/C.+echinodes+arrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kKkUFmUcDsM/U8xcRsCodAI/AAAAAAAAKGk/haNQmY84TwU/s1600/C.+echinodes+arrow.jpg" height="400" width="327" /></a></div><b>Prickly Quill Sedge</b>, <i>Carex echinodes</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xtcOUg-eVzk/U8xbQYnncEI/AAAAAAAAKGY/g4eAFGucxDc/s1600/C.+albolutescens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xtcOUg-eVzk/U8xbQYnncEI/AAAAAAAAKGY/g4eAFGucxDc/s1600/C.+albolutescens.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></div><b>Greenish-white Sedge</b>, <i>Carex albolutescens</i>. It's one thing to put up pictures with names, it's another not to say much about them. I'm simply not familiar enough with these. Like cephalophora, both these species have fewer and smaller spikelets than the previous species. They are loosely spread along the stem, and not restricted to the top. This group of Carex have <u>bent styles</u> at their base (see arrows), but how many species does that apply to?<br /><br />Prickly Quill Sedge is a new species that was lifted from <i>Carex tenera</i>. Greenish-white Sedge is found way up in the N.E. part of the state, and a few counties in southern Ohio. It's considered rare, but probably due to misidentifications.<br /><br />DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-2036714314900611272014-08-04T21:51:00.000-04:002015-01-05T10:38:33.051-05:00Carex Sedges part 3, the small speciesPart three consists of species with smaller fruiting structures. While most sedges are wetland oriented, this first batch of species are found in woodland habitats.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M1TxFX03Bxk/U81A5_4CpTI/AAAAAAAAKG0/y3GvVDnTtFk/s1600/C.+blanda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M1TxFX03Bxk/U81A5_4CpTI/AAAAAAAAKG0/y3GvVDnTtFk/s1600/C.+blanda.jpg" height="280" width="400" /></a></div><b>Wood Sedge</b>, <i>Carex blanda</i>. This species usually shows 1-2 spikelets at the top of the plant. The perigynia are <u>bluish white</u> mixed with green. They are inflated and look like green eggs or mini water balloons. They have a very short beak at their tips. The staminate spike (on the right) has scales with a distinct <u>green line</u> down the center. The bottom of the plant has very wide leaves like an Iris or Cattail.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uw3ID-QSFxM/U81C7fen4iI/AAAAAAAAKHA/HVl0SQ3FM5E/s1600/C.+laxiflora+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uw3ID-QSFxM/U81C7fen4iI/AAAAAAAAKHA/HVl0SQ3FM5E/s1600/C.+laxiflora+4.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LeoviLk60wk/U81DTIJ_4SI/AAAAAAAAKHI/QUIQ5k0MP9g/s1600/C.+laxiflora+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LeoviLk60wk/U81DTIJ_4SI/AAAAAAAAKHI/QUIQ5k0MP9g/s1600/C.+laxiflora+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Broad Loose-flowered Sedge</b>, <i>Carex laxiflora</i>. At frist glance, it looks just like <i>blanda</i>. With these smaller sedges, you better get on your hands and knees and use a lens. The fruit is more green than bluish, and the perigynia are more <u>elongated</u>. The fruit is often tucked into the leaves. The small beak is colored <u>white</u>. <i>laxiflora</i> and its relatives are very difficult to tell apart from photos.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W5BXeSbI_E8/U81EwAyiKaI/AAAAAAAAKHU/fkdTtfhn2s0/s1600/C.+pensylvanica+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W5BXeSbI_E8/U81EwAyiKaI/AAAAAAAAKHU/fkdTtfhn2s0/s1600/C.+pensylvanica+close.jpg" height="253" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvR2v_jw24I/U81E9a0QLVI/AAAAAAAAKHc/nnOyGvCFUrg/s1600/C.+pensylvanica+clump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvR2v_jw24I/U81E9a0QLVI/AAAAAAAAKHc/nnOyGvCFUrg/s1600/C.+pensylvanica+clump.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Pennsylvania Sedge</b>, <i>Carex pensylvanica</i>. This is a common species found in dry upland woods, especially where oaks grow. It has narrow grass like leaves that grow in clumps. It could be mistaken for a grass, but follow the leaves out to the end and check the fruit. This is an early spring bloomer, the flower of which I pictured in part 1.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZnO9pUDj5A/U81GtM8_gOI/AAAAAAAAKHo/1lw64UhMh94/s1600/C.+albicans+oak+sedge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZnO9pUDj5A/U81GtM8_gOI/AAAAAAAAKHo/1lw64UhMh94/s1600/C.+albicans+oak+sedge.jpg" height="260" width="400" /></a></div><b>Oak Sedge</b>, <i>Carex albicans</i>. Another woodland species with brown <u>needle like</u> fruit. It's also called White-tinged Sedge, as the brown fruit has scales that are partially <u>white</u>. This is also a clump forming species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBrvkPR2VOs/U81H6hOBiLI/AAAAAAAAKHw/2Dh8iXVYN5U/s1600/C.bromoides.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBrvkPR2VOs/U81H6hOBiLI/AAAAAAAAKHw/2Dh8iXVYN5U/s1600/C.bromoides.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KzxPi_HwhoI/U81ITMM3ahI/AAAAAAAAKH4/FFz8UzoFp6Q/s1600/C.+bromoides+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KzxPi_HwhoI/U81ITMM3ahI/AAAAAAAAKH4/FFz8UzoFp6Q/s1600/C.+bromoides+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_rgFoNY9jWI/U81IpcREA7I/AAAAAAAAKIA/AY_2T2DPeuU/s1600/C.+bromoides+thicket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_rgFoNY9jWI/U81IpcREA7I/AAAAAAAAKIA/AY_2T2DPeuU/s1600/C.+bromoides+thicket.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Brome</b> or <b>Tussock Sedge,</b> <i>Carex bromoides</i>. The fruits are narrow and small, and like the previous species, will grow erect and eventually lean over. So what is different about this one? Habitat. Look for this in wet woods and <b>swamps</b>. The upland species tend to form scattered clumps, while Brome Sedge can dominate an entire bottomland.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4JoX7n6NlA0/U81Lxmkh2nI/AAAAAAAAKIM/GWvIpV88vtE/s1600/C.+swanii+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4JoX7n6NlA0/U81Lxmkh2nI/AAAAAAAAKIM/GWvIpV88vtE/s1600/C.+swanii+3.jpg" height="317" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-diCvOjbuATE/U81McLnHIqI/AAAAAAAAKIU/ypva2Asy5gg/s1600/C.+swanii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-diCvOjbuATE/U81McLnHIqI/AAAAAAAAKIU/ypva2Asy5gg/s1600/C.+swanii.jpg" height="382" width="400" /></a></div><b>Swan's Sedge</b>, <i>Carex swanii</i>. Another woodland species with short compact fruit heads. There are whitish scales that point outward, giving it a slight hairy look. To my eye, I remember this one because they look like Q-tips.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SMRgCk5plDI/U81O0uUqCSI/AAAAAAAAKIg/s5cruQUosDc/s1600/C.+hirsutella+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SMRgCk5plDI/U81O0uUqCSI/AAAAAAAAKIg/s5cruQUosDc/s1600/C.+hirsutella+L.K..jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mn7W8ofUSf0/U81PABFdNiI/AAAAAAAAKIo/ySdHd7d8_zk/s1600/C.+hirsutella+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mn7W8ofUSf0/U81PABFdNiI/AAAAAAAAKIo/ySdHd7d8_zk/s1600/C.+hirsutella+2.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div><b>Hairy-leaved Sedge</b>, <i>Carex hirsutella</i>. Another compact fruiting species. The upper photo was taken several weeks after the bottom photo, and at different locations. I don't think these are Q-tip similar at all. The fruit is essentially smooth. The leaves on the other hand, especially down at the <u>bottom</u>, are very hairy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-30t1L1OIyqw/U81Wj0WBijI/AAAAAAAAKJk/ezMcy52YgKw/s1600/C.+granularis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-30t1L1OIyqw/U81Wj0WBijI/AAAAAAAAKJk/ezMcy52YgKw/s1600/C.+granularis.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>"This looks just like the last one." I wonder how many times people have said that reading these posts.<br /><b>Meadow Sedge</b>, <i>Carex granularis</i>. The perigynia are tightly packed and round like BB's or bits of grain (granularis). Each perigynia has many veins. The leaves are not hairy like the above species. Though short, there are <u><b>sharp pointed scales</b></u> protruding outward from the fruit. This species is found in mixed habitats.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gKLvFaoLfzY/U81RokBwWRI/AAAAAAAAKI0/_iHZXO3MvSg/s1600/C.+virescens+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gKLvFaoLfzY/U81RokBwWRI/AAAAAAAAKI0/_iHZXO3MvSg/s1600/C.+virescens+2.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BmfxAGeaQC8/U81R60pqtZI/AAAAAAAAKI8/dTfIu2ah4Ow/s1600/C.+virescens+stem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BmfxAGeaQC8/U81R60pqtZI/AAAAAAAAKI8/dTfIu2ah4Ow/s1600/C.+virescens+stem.jpg" height="400" width="272" /></a></div><b>Ribbed Sedge</b>, <i>Carex virescens</i>. This is another hairy species, especially on the stems. The fruit is not compact but elongated and skinny, like a pipe cleaner.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmzhW0eRaAQ/U81SuGZ25sI/AAAAAAAAKJE/XKX8Scgqfg4/s1600/swanii+&amp;+virescens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmzhW0eRaAQ/U81SuGZ25sI/AAAAAAAAKJE/XKX8Scgqfg4/s1600/swanii+&amp;+virescens.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Not a great pic, but I think you can see the comparison. Take the Q-tip of <i>swanii</i>&nbsp;on the left, and STRETCH it out, and you have <i>virescens</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iHbJiTjEAmU/U81UD50iCjI/AAAAAAAAKJQ/-8XnhQYUBzc/s1600/glaucodea+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iHbJiTjEAmU/U81UD50iCjI/AAAAAAAAKJQ/-8XnhQYUBzc/s1600/glaucodea+3.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o58TtoYrUFg/U81UnGeSZHI/AAAAAAAAKJY/DcNVVQpQjLk/s1600/glaucodea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o58TtoYrUFg/U81UnGeSZHI/AAAAAAAAKJY/DcNVVQpQjLk/s1600/glaucodea.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></div><b>Blue Sedge</b>, <i>Carex glaucodea</i>. This is found in both woodlands and open sites. The narrow fruit tend to hug the stems. A similar pipe cleaner shape as in <i>virescens,</i>&nbsp;but a greener color due to the lack of as many hairs. This is another species that you have to <u>examine the leaves</u> down low. They are blue-green or <i>glaucous</i> coated.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vHE4ueELTAE/U81Y8I4iuJI/AAAAAAAAKJw/6yTNPr3NvpM/s1600/C.+planispicata+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vHE4ueELTAE/U81Y8I4iuJI/AAAAAAAAKJw/6yTNPr3NvpM/s1600/C.+planispicata+L.K..jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EPydolVbd9A/U81ZHrsEFCI/AAAAAAAAKJ4/8IubwyhWGu8/s1600/C.+planispicata+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EPydolVbd9A/U81ZHrsEFCI/AAAAAAAAKJ4/8IubwyhWGu8/s1600/C.+planispicata+2.jpg" height="400" width="190" /></a></div><b>Flat-spiked Sedge</b>, <i>Carex planispicata</i>. A species of well drained sites. Notice how each perigynia grows in an alternate fashion called 2-ranked. Important recognition factor is the <b>flattened </b>fruit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_UiWqk7L8oA/U81acD1WpXI/AAAAAAAAKKE/OYFJ_3m1nPs/s1600/C.+torta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_UiWqk7L8oA/U81acD1WpXI/AAAAAAAAKKE/OYFJ_3m1nPs/s1600/C.+torta.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-97a5SeGlnjo/U81anMDsUjI/AAAAAAAAKKM/ZXHWXkorSTs/s1600/C.+torta+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-97a5SeGlnjo/U81anMDsUjI/AAAAAAAAKKM/ZXHWXkorSTs/s1600/C.+torta+2.jpg" height="400" width="385" /></a></div><b>Twisted Sedge</b>, <i>Carex torta</i>. These sedges are starting to look more like grass seed. This is a skinny fruiting species found along streams. The spikes sometimes start to hang down at the top. The tip of the perigynia is curved or <u>twisting away</u> from the plant. The scales are <u>brown striped</u>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--q1tkMsSvLc/U81bvYn7xII/AAAAAAAAKKY/9mdaooWrWqU/s1600/C.+graccilima.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--q1tkMsSvLc/U81bvYn7xII/AAAAAAAAKKY/9mdaooWrWqU/s1600/C.+graccilima.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Graceful Sedge</b>, <i>Carex gracillima</i>. A loose and weakly fruiting species, even more so than <i>torta</i>. The round perigynia have virtually no beak at their tips. These could be mistaken for grasses such as Leersia. If it wasn't for the drooping look, they might also resemble Plantain. Look for this in wetland soils.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-djswEA2oZqs/U81dtcWMJxI/AAAAAAAAKKk/QhILjD_ve3c/s1600/C.+digitalis+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-djswEA2oZqs/U81dtcWMJxI/AAAAAAAAKKk/QhILjD_ve3c/s1600/C.+digitalis+2.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></a></div><b>Slender Woodland Sedge</b>, <i>Carex digitalis</i>. Take a specimen of gracillima above, and shake it till most of the fruit have fallen off, and you have <i>digitalis</i>. It really does look <b>bare</b>, as if it had shed most of the perigynia already. This is a sparse fruiting, drooping species. Use a hand lens and you'll see the fruit is not flat or round, but <u>3-sided</u>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5uA1DHKOoQI/U81gRmFj0fI/AAAAAAAAKKw/hrZO38XyhMQ/s1600/C.+laxiculmis+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5uA1DHKOoQI/U81gRmFj0fI/AAAAAAAAKKw/hrZO38XyhMQ/s1600/C.+laxiculmis+2.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><b>Spreading Sedge</b>, <i>Carex laxiculmis</i>. A big leaved species with thin, weak fruiting stems. Spikelets are short and dangle like a <u>bell</u> on long peduncles. Sometimes confused with <i>digitalis</i> above, the perigynia are more tightly packed into a rounder cluster. The staminate spikes grow erect and are found <u>well above</u> the pistillate portions.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ImfqKNAF0b8/U81ix21gDeI/AAAAAAAAKK8/VPfdRNYRew8/s1600/C.+grisea+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ImfqKNAF0b8/U81ix21gDeI/AAAAAAAAKK8/VPfdRNYRew8/s1600/C.+grisea+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Grey Sedge</b>, <i>Carex grisea</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5bmVvhu18gc/U81jHaBNt6I/AAAAAAAAKLE/UBY80wJY_OY/s1600/C.+amphibola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5bmVvhu18gc/U81jHaBNt6I/AAAAAAAAKLE/UBY80wJY_OY/s1600/C.+amphibola.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Narrow-leaved Sedge</b>, <i>Carex amphibola</i>. Both of these are similar to <i>planispicata</i> further above. In fact the three of them were once combined into a single species. These two do NOT have flat fruit like <i>planispicata</i>. All three have short fruiting heads with pointy scales sticking out between the perigynia. I await more information on how to separate these two.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiGIfFB6FMU/U81mUpXZFWI/AAAAAAAAKLQ/RIry5cCA_gc/s1600/C.+complanata+Lake+Kath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiGIfFB6FMU/U81mUpXZFWI/AAAAAAAAKLQ/RIry5cCA_gc/s1600/C.+complanata+Lake+Kath.jpg" height="400" width="336" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I5jXT_0T77E/U81md871toI/AAAAAAAAKLY/s4EcUvUIyiA/s1600/C.+complanata+stem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I5jXT_0T77E/U81md871toI/AAAAAAAAKLY/s4EcUvUIyiA/s1600/C.+complanata+stem.jpg" height="253" width="400" /></a></div><b>Hirsute Sedge</b>, <i>Carex complanata</i>. The fruit resembles <i>C. hirsutella</i>, which it was once combined. The distinguishing &nbsp;character is the <u>red stem</u>. Rick found this at Lake Katherine. It is rare in Ohio, having been recorded in only a couple southern counties.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e487Riy__KE/U81oPthGJtI/AAAAAAAAKLk/hpXr9wBjC6k/s1600/sedge+Carex+viridistellata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e487Riy__KE/U81oPthGJtI/AAAAAAAAKLk/hpXr9wBjC6k/s1600/sedge+Carex+viridistellata.jpg" height="302" width="400" /></a></div><b>Green-star Sedge</b>, <i>Carex viridistellata</i>. A newly described species that Andrew Gibson showed me in Adams County. The fruits are small when compared to other spiked species I mentioned before. This is found on open hillside seeps and wetland soils of prairies and fens.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bYViRQL9p_E/U81rhM1kJLI/AAAAAAAAKLw/ZoK9vZw1JtM/s1600/C.+prasina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bYViRQL9p_E/U81rhM1kJLI/AAAAAAAAKLw/ZoK9vZw1JtM/s1600/C.+prasina.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div>Finally, we've reached the end. I hope to add both photos and new information to these sedge posts in the future. For now I include another "maybe" pic, emphasizing that photos alone don't always do the trick. This looks like <b>Drooping Sedge</b>, <i>Carex prasina</i>, a species of woodland streams. You need to examine those prickly scales and see if they are both flat and <u>bent</u>. The perigynium has only 2 veins. Most sedges have more.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-502349028875845402014-08-04T21:50:00.002-04:002014-08-04T21:50:33.139-04:00Unknown Sedges, for the experts.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D2xurK2Zpfs/U8wvh6blA7I/AAAAAAAAJ_g/GYsVCLSAQyk/s1600/carex,+Zaleski+unknown+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D2xurK2Zpfs/U8wvh6blA7I/AAAAAAAAJ_g/GYsVCLSAQyk/s1600/carex,+Zaleski+unknown+1.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>#1 Zaleski. Who can tell, maybe someone that really knows these may come by and put names on them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xD0q3BVEizo/U8wvzTKsirI/AAAAAAAAJ_o/KBvuuxdUgRk/s1600/cristatella%3f+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xD0q3BVEizo/U8wvzTKsirI/AAAAAAAAJ_o/KBvuuxdUgRk/s1600/cristatella%3f+2.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhxKMi_tkMg/U8wv7iHUuaI/AAAAAAAAJ_w/kM8XrOWY1Dk/s1600/cristatella%3f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhxKMi_tkMg/U8wv7iHUuaI/AAAAAAAAJ_w/kM8XrOWY1Dk/s1600/cristatella%3f.JPG" height="275" width="400" /></a></div>Heavily packed Carex cristatella? Youngstown<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rII155zlDyk/U8wwK3FRa6I/AAAAAAAAJ_4/rGJi7lZwBIw/s1600/sedge+1+vickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rII155zlDyk/U8wwK3FRa6I/AAAAAAAAJ_4/rGJi7lZwBIw/s1600/sedge+1+vickers.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZufHbNkuZE/U8wwTwkZNFI/AAAAAAAAKAA/P1HqNduNsTs/s1600/sedge+1a+vickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZufHbNkuZE/U8wwTwkZNFI/AAAAAAAAKAA/P1HqNduNsTs/s1600/sedge+1a+vickers.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--fP3M1hJDxE/U8wwbdJcFpI/AAAAAAAAKAI/JwIw25QSucA/s1600/scoparia%3f+vickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--fP3M1hJDxE/U8wwbdJcFpI/AAAAAAAAKAI/JwIw25QSucA/s1600/scoparia%3f+vickers.jpg" height="400" width="385" /></a></div>From the Youngstown area. Carex scoparia?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IvKJPedTZyY/U8wwooDbSFI/AAAAAAAAKAQ/R5jyZUZLO5s/s1600/carex+unknown+%234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IvKJPedTZyY/U8wwooDbSFI/AAAAAAAAKAQ/R5jyZUZLO5s/s1600/carex+unknown+%234.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>#4<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cY6m8mUI0pM/U8wwz-Rqy0I/AAAAAAAAKAY/LvkEMifLYEI/s1600/sedge+vickers+unknown+%235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cY6m8mUI0pM/U8wwz-Rqy0I/AAAAAAAAKAY/LvkEMifLYEI/s1600/sedge+vickers+unknown+%235.jpg" height="270" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uOBZ4avzcl8/U8ww8pfXjTI/AAAAAAAAKAg/-OdGoHPiJ7M/s1600/sedge+vickers+unknown+%235a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uOBZ4avzcl8/U8ww8pfXjTI/AAAAAAAAKAg/-OdGoHPiJ7M/s1600/sedge+vickers+unknown+%235a.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>#5 N.E. Ohio<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TuDszMIynhw/U8wxIWJO3RI/AAAAAAAAKAo/o8qMG9GBA2U/s1600/sedge+unknown+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TuDszMIynhw/U8wxIWJO3RI/AAAAAAAAKAo/o8qMG9GBA2U/s1600/sedge+unknown+6.JPG" height="302" width="400" /></a></div>#6 S.E. Ohio<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UTOY2de7VxI/U8wxWWfaaKI/AAAAAAAAKAw/6F01ZPQ1MRs/s1600/vulpin+or+annectens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UTOY2de7VxI/U8wxWWfaaKI/AAAAAAAAKAw/6F01ZPQ1MRs/s1600/vulpin+or+annectens.jpg" height="332" width="400" /></a></div>vulpinoidea or annectens?<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hoAKisrIJis/U-AqaOCzNoI/AAAAAAAAKMQ/Y80HUg5Hxrw/s1600/seven+sedges.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hoAKisrIJis/U-AqaOCzNoI/AAAAAAAAKMQ/Y80HUg5Hxrw/s1600/seven+sedges.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>The Seven Sedges. I'm sure about a couple of them, Sleepy, Dopey, Grumpy, but don't want to guess on the rest.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-75859630061772527622014-07-15T17:23:00.000-04:002014-07-26T03:09:45.546-04:00A Moth Night-just for me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9BPlyuT8wng/U8V3P076jfI/AAAAAAAAJ0Y/8aPOt6Yr60c/s1600/bergamot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9BPlyuT8wng/U8V3P076jfI/AAAAAAAAJ0Y/8aPOt6Yr60c/s1600/bergamot.jpg" height="387" width="400" /></a></div>Several people have asked me this summer when I'm going to do another moth night at Wahkeena or elsewhere. I have done a number of them over the last couple of years, and always enjoy helping people identify their moth photos. This time I wanted to have a private night for myself, and maybe catch up on some collecting. This is <b>Wild Bergamot</b>, <i>Monarda fistulosa</i>. During the day they often look pinkish white. I took this as the sun went down, and I love how the purple color really shows.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lsc8aS_iNjs/U8V5UMrzU1I/AAAAAAAAJ0k/qPbFGNTO35U/s1600/brown+prionid+Orthosoma+brunneum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lsc8aS_iNjs/U8V5UMrzU1I/AAAAAAAAJ0k/qPbFGNTO35U/s1600/brown+prionid+Orthosoma+brunneum.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Thanks to Tom Shisler for setting up a generator way back in the woods. With a full moon I knew it would not be productive out in the open. John Hickenbottom, naturalist at Lake Hope State Park spent the night as Tom's guest. John had never been on a moth walk. This is <i>Orthosoma brunneum</i>, the <b>Brown Prionid Beetle</b>. I'm always looking for more than just moths.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QbPz77jqZM8/U9NUJE8LJjI/AAAAAAAAKMA/LkZzXj-AcFQ/s1600/lontail+salamander+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QbPz77jqZM8/U9NUJE8LJjI/AAAAAAAAKMA/LkZzXj-AcFQ/s1600/lontail+salamander+3.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Back in the spring pools, this <b>Long-tailed Salamander</b>, <i>Eurycea longicauda</i> made an appearance late that night.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wZK1qf2AJlw/U8V6_4YpK-I/AAAAAAAAJ00/T7EUKVWfg9M/s1600/tiger+spiketail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wZK1qf2AJlw/U8V6_4YpK-I/AAAAAAAAJ00/T7EUKVWfg9M/s1600/tiger+spiketail.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></div><b>Tiger Spiketail</b>, <i>Cordulegaster erronea</i>. Tom was doing a survey of dragonflies for a workshop with Bob Glotzhober the next day. Tigers are rare and endangered in Ohio. Unfortunately this one was on its last leg and didn't survive the day. The good news is Tom observed a half dozen <u>different </u>specimens on the area that day. They differ from other spiketails by the yellow rings around the abdomen. Yes I know the photo isn't great sitting on a piece of paper, but I had never seen one.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fafb51njlRM/U8V9jfBCuHI/AAAAAAAAJ1E/Q2-R_VavvM8/s1600/Marbled+Green+Leuconycta+lepidula.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fafb51njlRM/U8V9jfBCuHI/AAAAAAAAJ1E/Q2-R_VavvM8/s1600/Marbled+Green+Leuconycta+lepidula.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>The <b>Marbled Green</b>, <i>Leuconycta lepidula</i>. I stick this in because there just aren't a lot of moths with green on them. I sometimes call it the lichen moth, but that common name is often applied to many other species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e-7UrkUW6No/U8V-NwLeydI/AAAAAAAAJ1M/xqURr6u9UVo/s1600/dimorphic+tosale+Tosale+oviplagalis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e-7UrkUW6No/U8V-NwLeydI/AAAAAAAAJ1M/xqURr6u9UVo/s1600/dimorphic+tosale+Tosale+oviplagalis.jpg" height="400" width="312" /></a></div>This small moth looks like a type of owlet, but has jagged wing margins like an inchworm. It holds its abdomen curled like a slug moth, and does push-ups with its front legs like several other micro moth families. What is it? <i>Tosale oviplagalis</i>, the <b>Dimorphic Tosale</b>. It is in the Pyralid family. The dark patch across the wing is diagnostic, but I like the raised tuft of scales above that mark that resembles a little bird wing.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HVoSL1qfbAE/U8V_R0ax7PI/AAAAAAAAJ1U/seCAovh5vjk/s1600/figure+-seven+Drasteria+(Synedoida)+grandirena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HVoSL1qfbAE/U8V_R0ax7PI/AAAAAAAAJ1U/seCAovh5vjk/s1600/figure+-seven+Drasteria+(Synedoida)+grandirena.jpg" height="331" width="400" /></a></div><b>Figure Seven Moth</b>, <i>Drasteria (Synedoida) grandirena</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZxCvmUUSXQ/U8V_q1Qr_9I/AAAAAAAAJ1c/u9TWiB-qa90/s1600/figure-seven+moth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZxCvmUUSXQ/U8V_q1Qr_9I/AAAAAAAAJ1c/u9TWiB-qa90/s1600/figure-seven+moth.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>It is often pictured in field guides with the <i>Catacola</i> moths because it could be mistaken for an Underwing Moth. Underwings have red, yellow, orange or white stripes in their hind wings. The hindwing here reminds me of a carved Jack O' Lantern. I do well on Rorschach tests.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n3kJWyXeYNM/U8WBTZJlzRI/AAAAAAAAJ1o/n61L8eK31K4/s1600/saddleback+moth+outline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n3kJWyXeYNM/U8WBTZJlzRI/AAAAAAAAJ1o/n61L8eK31K4/s1600/saddleback+moth+outline.jpg" height="400" width="398" /></a></div>What in the world? I can't tell if that's a vase on a stand, or Mr. Waternoose from Monsters Inc. Yes that is a moth outline.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0pmAyUxE7CY/U8WDAT003jI/AAAAAAAAJ10/8YNjq3Espr4/s1600/saddleback+moth+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0pmAyUxE7CY/U8WDAT003jI/AAAAAAAAJ10/8YNjq3Espr4/s1600/saddleback+moth+back.jpg" height="367" width="400" /></a></div>Something this strange could only belong to my favorite group, the Slug Moths.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FOKxIShGMdc/U8WDTSKH42I/AAAAAAAAJ18/O04BG3HRtUc/s1600/saddleback+moth+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FOKxIShGMdc/U8WDTSKH42I/AAAAAAAAJ18/O04BG3HRtUc/s1600/saddleback+moth+side.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>From the side you can see it really is a moth, in this case the <b>Saddleback Slug</b>, <i>Acharia stimulea</i>. Those weird tufts are raised scales on the legs and abdomen.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v53Npq5fiWs/U8WD_NmuhoI/AAAAAAAAJ2E/guuqVPJ_OTg/s1600/saddleback+moth+male+Acharia+stimulea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v53Npq5fiWs/U8WD_NmuhoI/AAAAAAAAJ2E/guuqVPJ_OTg/s1600/saddleback+moth+male+Acharia+stimulea.jpg" height="256" width="400" /></a></div>We are all familiar with the Saddleback caterpillar, but because of the lack of color, the adult is often overlooked. It has the 3-4 white spots on the wing like many other slugs. The chocolate color is highlighted up close by silvery-purple frosting. Sometimes they sit with their legs up and look like a spider. This male appears dead, flat, and squished, but he is very much alive.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--j6d3EYopx8/U8WFwHvDi3I/AAAAAAAAJ2Q/UkK6JYiOIxA/s1600/nasons+slug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--j6d3EYopx8/U8WFwHvDi3I/AAAAAAAAJ2Q/UkK6JYiOIxA/s1600/nasons+slug.jpg" height="295" width="400" /></a></div><b>Nason's Slug</b>, <i>Natada nasoni</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-73w3rCcDxS0/U8WGEHYlUBI/AAAAAAAAJ2Y/55JErtaobsI/s1600/button+slug+tortricidia+pallida.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-73w3rCcDxS0/U8WGEHYlUBI/AAAAAAAAJ2Y/55JErtaobsI/s1600/button+slug+tortricidia+pallida.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></div><b>Button Slug</b>, <i>Tortricidia pallida</i>, one of the smallest Limacodid slugs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nSewX_RWgjk/U8WGaj5HnDI/AAAAAAAAJ2g/caryU_BwFd8/s1600/Parasa+chloris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nSewX_RWgjk/U8WGaj5HnDI/AAAAAAAAJ2g/caryU_BwFd8/s1600/Parasa+chloris.jpg" height="310" width="400" /></a></div><b>Smaller Parasa Slug</b>, <i>Parasa chloris</i>. The night after Wahkeena, I went to see Lisa Sells at her new residence outside Lancaster, and we set up a sheet. If you know Lisa, you are aware that her macro photography is second to none. So this is a collection of photos from both locations.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MSF4fgGMiJU/U8WInSMmKUI/AAAAAAAAJ28/iIfpoWgTOUA/s1600/skiff+moth+prolimacodes+badia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MSF4fgGMiJU/U8WInSMmKUI/AAAAAAAAJ28/iIfpoWgTOUA/s1600/skiff+moth+prolimacodes+badia.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Skiff Moth</b>, <i>Prolimacodes badia, </i>another slug species. Have you noticed a sudden change in the photographs? I hate taking pics against a sheet. The background is terrible, and the bright light always messes with my results. After moths have settled into a sheet for a time, you can often move them to a more natural background. I am learning patience!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lyM-mcfF17M/U8WJgCtyECI/AAAAAAAAJ3E/7ebUeXzcTUY/s1600/skiff+moth+camo+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lyM-mcfF17M/U8WJgCtyECI/AAAAAAAAJ3E/7ebUeXzcTUY/s1600/skiff+moth+camo+2.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>After a few pictures, the Skiff dropped off the leaf. It took me a minute to relocate it. I'd say it shows some pretty nice camouflage while on the ground.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TA1IdK8d_c4/U8WHyUEKMVI/AAAAAAAAJ20/HvHIxOfvHo0/s1600/white+flannel+norape+ovina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TA1IdK8d_c4/U8WHyUEKMVI/AAAAAAAAJ20/HvHIxOfvHo0/s1600/white+flannel+norape+ovina.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>Cousins to the Slug Moths are the Flannel Moths. This is <i>Norape ovina</i>, the <b>White Flannel Moth</b>. It doesn't have to be multicolored to be interesting.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CU6dlM1-EqM/U8WHqU5RBdI/AAAAAAAAJ2w/1QDOCJUOaOI/s1600/white+flannel+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CU6dlM1-EqM/U8WHqU5RBdI/AAAAAAAAJ2w/1QDOCJUOaOI/s1600/white+flannel+close.jpg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>In an up close view, you can see the waves of raised crinkly scales on the wings. The outline of the moth is broken up by various sized tufts of hairs from head to tail.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r25eyaPzq8A/U8WLpMODDLI/AAAAAAAAJ3Y/ITCAkLu3wEo/s1600/Ectropis+crepuscularia+Small+Engrailed+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r25eyaPzq8A/U8WLpMODDLI/AAAAAAAAJ3Y/ITCAkLu3wEo/s1600/Ectropis+crepuscularia+Small+Engrailed+2.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></div>"Oh, that's one of those gray inchworms that all look alike." Yep, I have been guilty of saying that many times. I need to work on these inside, from specimens or photos. They are too difficult in the field. I've also <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>said this before, but after 25 years down here, I rarely ever see a new moth. That's what happens when you ignore some of them, even the common ones. If my identification is correct, this WAS a new species for me.<br /><br /><i>Ectropis crepuscularia</i>, the <b>Small Engrailed</b>. There are many color varieties of this species, including this melanic form. The fore wings do not have stripes, but look streaked. Stripes are more visible on the hind wings. The upper abdominal segment is encircled with black. The outer fore wings have a zig-zag white line. All of these similar Geometrids show 3-4 small black dots at the top of the wing.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2PUDI7fh_0M/U8WPYUwm-TI/AAAAAAAAJ3o/_A8SKeyYcPo/s1600/Protoboamia+porcelaria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2PUDI7fh_0M/U8WPYUwm-TI/AAAAAAAAJ3o/_A8SKeyYcPo/s1600/Protoboamia+porcelaria.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Here's another one. The 3-4 spots are more visible on the wing edges than the previous species. Many specimens will show more distinct stripes, but this one looks drab and dirty, with sort of a marble cake design, and lots of finely shredded chocolate chip drops. Stripes on the hind wing reach to the edge of the abdomen. Similar species have a large white ring on the first abdominal segment, which this lacks. I'm going with the <b>Porcelain Gray</b>, <i>Protoboarmia porcelaria</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tn5OhdFfIi0/U8WK2D0OqAI/AAAAAAAAJ3U/Xb9amc-APRY/s1600/imperial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tn5OhdFfIi0/U8WK2D0OqAI/AAAAAAAAJ3U/Xb9amc-APRY/s1600/imperial.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Let's end this post with some of the showier species. The <b>Imperial Moth</b>, <i>Eacles imperialis</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N0K6mISLcBo/U8WSA4OD2qI/AAAAAAAAJ3w/Bh3HALginf4/s1600/spiny+oakworm+Anisota+stigma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N0K6mISLcBo/U8WSA4OD2qI/AAAAAAAAJ3w/Bh3HALginf4/s1600/spiny+oakworm+Anisota+stigma.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Spiny Oakworm</b>, <i>Anisota stigma</i>. This is the only one of the oak worms that shows a distinct pink line in both wings.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-QClD7g0LQ/U8WSmxrLUgI/AAAAAAAAJ34/tFr_RNqHMsQ/s1600/elm+sphinx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-QClD7g0LQ/U8WSmxrLUgI/AAAAAAAAJ34/tFr_RNqHMsQ/s1600/elm+sphinx.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Elm Sphinx</b>, <i>Ceratomia amyntor</i>. The caterpillar is known as the <b>Four-horned Sphinx</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1PczriNB8c/U8WTB0DMPpI/AAAAAAAAJ4A/qvm1q_fsjos/s1600/catalpa+sphinx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1PczriNB8c/U8WTB0DMPpI/AAAAAAAAJ4A/qvm1q_fsjos/s1600/catalpa+sphinx.jpg" height="357" width="400" /></a></div>There were a lot of Catalpa trees in the area. Hmmm, how about the <b>Catalpa Sphinx</b>, <i>Ceratomia catalpae</i>. People use the caterpillars for fish bait. These are often confused with the Waved Sphinx. The Waved is clearly marked with white, black, and gray lines. Catalpa Sphinx moths are <u>brown</u> and gray, with faded or indistinct wing markings. Essentially, even when fresh, they look like a worn out Waved.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IO2ChMoAyrM/U8WUAdXQRII/AAAAAAAAJ4I/ob56hqFrUEo/s1600/small-eyed+sphinx+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IO2ChMoAyrM/U8WUAdXQRII/AAAAAAAAJ4I/ob56hqFrUEo/s1600/small-eyed+sphinx+close.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>This one came out very nice. Purple and orange make quite a combination. <b>Small-eyed Sphinx</b>, <i>Paonias</i> <i>myops</i>, is one of the five sphinx moths with eye spots. It may have the least interesting eye spots on the hind wing compared to the others, but that fore wing pattern is hard to argue with.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aqx70oS9MYY/U8WVLwlt2kI/AAAAAAAAJ4Q/EIPXBNT3IVk/s1600/royal+walnut+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aqx70oS9MYY/U8WVLwlt2kI/AAAAAAAAJ4Q/EIPXBNT3IVk/s1600/royal+walnut+close.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Royal Walnut Moth</b>, <i>Citheronia regalis</i>. This huge female had nearly a six inch wingspan. It's also known as the <b>Regal Moth</b>, and the larva is the <b>Hickory Horned Devil</b>.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9zL1vmtGvDk/U8WWYzemd-I/AAAAAAAAJ4Y/qFNtSiIMXmo/s1600/_DSC3747yellow+shoulderedslugmoth4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9zL1vmtGvDk/U8WWYzemd-I/AAAAAAAAJ4Y/qFNtSiIMXmo/s1600/_DSC3747yellow+shoulderedslugmoth4.jpg" height="418" width="640" /></a></div><b>Yellow-shouldered Slug Moth</b>, <i>Lithacodes fasciola</i>. &nbsp;Now this is REAL macro photography! No it's not mine. Just wanted to show you the kind of stuff Lisa Sells has been working on.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-45104908257967095052014-07-10T13:02:00.000-04:002014-07-10T13:56:51.692-04:00Nature Preserves: Mill Creek & Wahkeena<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O_oa6cfRfCg/U7yqgivfyjI/AAAAAAAAJtY/CJXawJLQhoQ/s1600/striped+hairstreak+Satyrium+liparops.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O_oa6cfRfCg/U7yqgivfyjI/AAAAAAAAJtY/CJXawJLQhoQ/s1600/striped+hairstreak+Satyrium+liparops.JPG" height="356" width="400" /></a></div>Just like I started at Lake Katherine, the first thing I saw getting out of the car was a hairstreak butterfly. &nbsp;This time it was a <b>Striped Hairstreak</b>, <i>Satyrium liparops,</i> one of the darker hairstreaks with more orange than blue on the hindwing. I do one of two things on this blog. Either intense taxonomic posts, or general nature hikes. This will be the latter. I'm working on the former. Those tend to be for a smaller audience, and take forever to develop. These shots come from Wahkeena in southern Ohio, Mill Creek Wildlife Area, and Vickers Preserve in Mahoning County.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QKvtUOPJkbs/U7yrlonu8BI/AAAAAAAAJtg/7etb3X9YmDA/s1600/stink+bug,+Chinavia+hilaris.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QKvtUOPJkbs/U7yrlonu8BI/AAAAAAAAJtg/7etb3X9YmDA/s1600/stink+bug,+Chinavia+hilaris.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Green Stink Bug</b>, <i>Chinavia hilaris</i>. Species in this genus tend to show alternating black and yellow antennal segments. The thorax or <i>pronotum</i> behind the head is somewhat flat. In other Chinavia it looks more inflated. The white mark on the side is an egg, laid by a parasitic fly.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iSy3C9EMdJ0/U7ytAS1JEPI/AAAAAAAAJts/0bG5-6ke5QU/s1600/birds-foot+trefoil+fruit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iSy3C9EMdJ0/U7ytAS1JEPI/AAAAAAAAJts/0bG5-6ke5QU/s1600/birds-foot+trefoil+fruit.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Quick quiz. Recognize this fruit? Pea pods in a semi-circular arrangement. It's <b>Bird's-foot Trefoil</b>, <i>Lotus corniculatus</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q21mDCKFPRs/U7ytpnijIkI/AAAAAAAAJt0/UsXMGOhChbA/s1600/birds-foot+trefoil+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q21mDCKFPRs/U7ytpnijIkI/AAAAAAAAJt0/UsXMGOhChbA/s1600/birds-foot+trefoil+close.jpg" height="313" width="400" /></a></div>Here it is in its more recognizable bloom.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8cuYAFW9-sM/U7yuD_W0IQI/AAAAAAAAJt8/2XrAYRrPasc/s1600/crane+fly+Nephrotoma+sp+vickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8cuYAFW9-sM/U7yuD_W0IQI/AAAAAAAAJt8/2XrAYRrPasc/s1600/crane+fly+Nephrotoma+sp+vickers.jpg" height="327" width="400" /></a></div>Funny how some still call these giant mosquitos. This is a <b>Crane Fly</b>. The orange marked thorax, ringed yellow abdomen with a &nbsp;brown stripe, puts this in the genus <i>Nephrotoma</i>. The sharp pointed tip on the abdomen tells us it is a female.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NAFlwPrzhV4/U7yveU1O2dI/AAAAAAAAJuI/Rp47aw6mZw8/s1600/Crane+Fly,+Brachypremna+dispellens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NAFlwPrzhV4/U7yveU1O2dI/AAAAAAAAJuI/Rp47aw6mZw8/s1600/Crane+Fly,+Brachypremna+dispellens.jpg" height="328" width="400" /></a></div>The body of this Crane Fly has a dark streak from top to bottom. The abdomen is paler, and the thorax is black striped. This is the <b>Long-legged Dancer</b>, <i>Brachypremna dispellens</i>. On the legs, the long tibia are white, and the femurs are black.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i8_WIQg-0zM/U7ywXnlhYyI/AAAAAAAAJuQ/a1HM76g_qMI/s1600/Crane+Fly,+Long-legged+Dancer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i8_WIQg-0zM/U7ywXnlhYyI/AAAAAAAAJuQ/a1HM76g_qMI/s1600/Crane+Fly,+Long-legged+Dancer.jpg" height="378" width="400" /></a></div>These guys also have a skinny neck, big eyes, and a long snout. In this position it appears helpless, or maybe hapless, like it flew into something and got stuck. These Crane Flies hang by four legs, and dangle the other two. Watching this guy try to land was a laugh. Every single time it flew, it would bounce back and forth for 30 seconds to a minute before fixating on a plant.&nbsp;Remember playing paddle-ball as a kid? You get the picture.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FgnNPmrW5Qg/U7zSXWutvMI/AAAAAAAAJyc/8Ig8wptXrB0/s1600/timothy+bloom+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FgnNPmrW5Qg/U7zSXWutvMI/AAAAAAAAJyc/8Ig8wptXrB0/s1600/timothy+bloom+2.JPG" height="370" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BHcxKkkqFI0/U7zSjqGb1MI/AAAAAAAAJyk/PbxnQRRWgtw/s1600/timothy+bloom+Phleum+pratense.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BHcxKkkqFI0/U7zSjqGb1MI/AAAAAAAAJyk/PbxnQRRWgtw/s1600/timothy+bloom+Phleum+pratense.JPG" height="345" width="400" /></a></div>Not one to be swayed by grass species in flower, this purple was just too attractive to ignore. This is <b>Timothy Grass</b>, <i>Phleum pratense</i> in bloom.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aINLPLyQFuY/U7zTdzksKoI/AAAAAAAAJys/Hj9JtNqplg0/s1600/timothy+old.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aINLPLyQFuY/U7zTdzksKoI/AAAAAAAAJys/Hj9JtNqplg0/s1600/timothy+old.JPG" height="328" width="400" /></a></div>This is how most of us probably see Timothy. Doesn't have the same effect now does it.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DxhY_DD08ZQ/U7yyYHQNAaI/AAAAAAAAJuc/bmQQe28U7PE/s1600/grape+flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DxhY_DD08ZQ/U7yyYHQNAaI/AAAAAAAAJuc/bmQQe28U7PE/s1600/grape+flower.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-02xAxu3t8Tk/U7yykTyVFQI/AAAAAAAAJuk/dOY-mLeOV5U/s1600/grape+2+egypt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-02xAxu3t8Tk/U7yykTyVFQI/AAAAAAAAJuk/dOY-mLeOV5U/s1600/grape+2+egypt.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>A cluster of round flowers dangle down from a grape vine. Judging by the leaves, this is probably <b>Summer Grape</b>, <i>Vitis aestivalis</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k09Blj6nvsE/U7yzTJz-yGI/AAAAAAAAJus/0v5ga_Ja0-k/s1600/Giant+bur-reed+flower.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k09Blj6nvsE/U7yzTJz-yGI/AAAAAAAAJus/0v5ga_Ja0-k/s1600/Giant+bur-reed+flower.JPG" height="400" width="393" /></a></div>Another cluster of round flowers, not hanging from a vine, but growing erect in a wetland. These belong to Bur-reed.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XKxvL7bFLek/U7y0znBAExI/AAAAAAAAJvA/td7t8s9sJuY/s1600/Giant+bur-reed+Sparganium+eurycarpum.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XKxvL7bFLek/U7y0znBAExI/AAAAAAAAJvA/td7t8s9sJuY/s1600/Giant+bur-reed+Sparganium+eurycarpum.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WAX9nzvGYP4/U7y0QL2S_8I/AAAAAAAAJu0/uDC_ljG-1R4/s1600/giant+bur-reed+in+hand.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WAX9nzvGYP4/U7y0QL2S_8I/AAAAAAAAJu0/uDC_ljG-1R4/s1600/giant+bur-reed+in+hand.JPG" height="260" width="400" /></a></div>There are several species in Ohio. The fruit of these are golf ball size or larger. That makes this the <b>Giant Bur-reed</b>, <i>Sparganium eurycarpum</i>. On the other species, the fruit has longer spikes that resemble Bur-dock or Thistle heads. These remind me more of Sweetgum, and look like melted green Hershey Kiss candies. Either that or it's a Jabba the Hut convention.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N6oanJuCCa8/U7y2PSKPYAI/AAAAAAAAJvI/5Ncc8grNKYM/s1600/great+egret.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N6oanJuCCa8/U7y2PSKPYAI/AAAAAAAAJvI/5Ncc8grNKYM/s1600/great+egret.JPG" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>Exploring wetlands with a macro limits what you can do. This <b>Great Egret</b> took off before I could sneak up, as if I thought I could.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p2hq7b65gYE/U7y3kQ4KgCI/AAAAAAAAJvU/5M1Fcc9gdxI/s1600/forget+me+not+laxa%3f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p2hq7b65gYE/U7y3kQ4KgCI/AAAAAAAAJvU/5M1Fcc9gdxI/s1600/forget+me+not+laxa%3f.JPG" height="367" width="400" /></a></div>A small <b>Forget-Me-Not</b> growing in a wetland? There are two nearly identical species. Both have the calyx with upward appressed hairs. <i>Myosotis laxa</i> has flowers up to 5 millimeters, while <i>M scorpioides</i> has flowers 5-9 mm. Funny, I carry a hand lens for such things, but never think to bring a ruler.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O4nemtPzlVc/U7y5nQGn2DI/AAAAAAAAJvg/FfZB_KrYBeU/s1600/slender+vetch+leaves+fruit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O4nemtPzlVc/U7y5nQGn2DI/AAAAAAAAJvg/FfZB_KrYBeU/s1600/slender+vetch+leaves+fruit.JPG" height="362" width="400" /></a></div>Also along the wetland was this legume with divided leaves and tendrils. I had to seek out the flowers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JkYkMe2j3h8/U7y6Ds4LIzI/AAAAAAAAJvo/SNT9DJT27do/s1600/slender+or+4-seeded+vetch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JkYkMe2j3h8/U7y6Ds4LIzI/AAAAAAAAJvo/SNT9DJT27do/s1600/slender+or+4-seeded+vetch.JPG" height="280" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bP3SLJaRmXI/U7y6NQicsUI/AAAAAAAAJvw/ejR8KHWP9Oo/s1600/slender+vetch+Viccia+tetrasperma.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bP3SLJaRmXI/U7y6NQicsUI/AAAAAAAAJvw/ejR8KHWP9Oo/s1600/slender+vetch+Viccia+tetrasperma.JPG" height="286" width="400" /></a></div>Did I say the last plant was small? Gees these flowers were minute. It's <b>Four-seeded</b> or <b>Slender Vetch</b>, <i>Viccia tetrasperma</i>, and unfortunately like so many other plants at this location, it's non native.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l3N7PSOrhRM/U7y752UclVI/AAAAAAAAJv8/MuMPWLG4X_U/s1600/long-legged+fly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l3N7PSOrhRM/U7y752UclVI/AAAAAAAAJv8/MuMPWLG4X_U/s1600/long-legged+fly.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>A Dolichopodid or&nbsp;<b>Long-legged Fly</b>. A shorter bodied species, lacking the iridescent green torpedo body of most members.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U3bwhQ39ll0/U7y891ILiVI/AAAAAAAAJwE/JhRTu0XX0Tk/s1600/millipede+Narceus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U3bwhQ39ll0/U7y891ILiVI/AAAAAAAAJwE/JhRTu0XX0Tk/s1600/millipede+Narceus.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>A <b>Narceus Millipede</b> rolls up upon my approach. I must have a heavy walk! Good to see Derek Hennen again at Mothapalooza. He's up from Arkansas still surveying the Ohio species. Too bad our schedules didn't allow us any field time together.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FOZIZ4eXl48/U7y_XPepu-I/AAAAAAAAJwQ/Fzau-DaQQow/s1600/soldier+beetle+P.+laticornis+wahk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FOZIZ4eXl48/U7y_XPepu-I/AAAAAAAAJwQ/Fzau-DaQQow/s1600/soldier+beetle+P.+laticornis+wahk.jpg" height="336" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kHLoySsYctU/U7y_gVPHs5I/AAAAAAAAJwY/BD3E2It3KlM/s1600/soldier+beetles+Polemius+laticornis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kHLoySsYctU/U7y_gVPHs5I/AAAAAAAAJwY/BD3E2It3KlM/s1600/soldier+beetles+Polemius+laticornis.jpg" height="363" width="400" /></a></div>I have been seeing tons of these little beetles everywhere. They appear to be <u>Lightning-bugs</u> or <u>Fireflies,</u> but not quite. Fireflies do not have visible heads. These closely resemble Plateros&nbsp;<u>Net-winged Beetles</u> and the first pic may actually be one. Net-wings have many striations down the back of the elytra. This mating pair only have three. That led me to&nbsp;<b>Soldier Beetles</b>, in particular <i>Polemius laticornis</i>. The raised bumps on the back of the thorax led me to the species. (Of course that includes the help of a <i>great</i>&nbsp;new beetle book by Howard Evans.) Not being a beetle person, I welcome corrections.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0MBZ7ze19pQ/U7zBVXqZUeI/AAAAAAAAJwk/YrIhyCoYe4g/s1600/firefly.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0MBZ7ze19pQ/U7zBVXqZUeI/AAAAAAAAJwk/YrIhyCoYe4g/s1600/firefly.JPG" height="371" width="400" /></a></div>Here is a true Firefly for comparison. The head is hidden under the thorax.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EaenLkcqmfY/U7zB5J2ScuI/AAAAAAAAJws/nYaR91GJRrE/s1600/least+skipper+vickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EaenLkcqmfY/U7zB5J2ScuI/AAAAAAAAJws/nYaR91GJRrE/s1600/least+skipper+vickers.jpg" height="303" width="400" /></a></div>A <b>Least Skipper</b>&nbsp;<i>Ancyloxypha numitor</i>, forages through the low vegetation. Always look near the ground for this slow flying butterfly.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8SfIhSslFqY/U7zCltVIH0I/AAAAAAAAJw4/j5Q13sKCPFs/s1600/Sparganothis+unifasciana+vickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8SfIhSslFqY/U7zCltVIH0I/AAAAAAAAJw4/j5Q13sKCPFs/s1600/Sparganothis+unifasciana+vickers.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></div>Also hiding in the grass was this Tortricid moth known as the <b>One-banded Leafroller</b>, <i>Sparganothis unifasciana</i>. The red band forms a V shape on the back. Depending on how intense the other red marks are, you may even see a slight X. Check out the schnoz on this one.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nrTIxaWWO8g/U7zFOMyiduI/AAAAAAAAJxE/UohJqLjyza4/s1600/White-margined+Burrower+bug+Sehirus+cinctus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nrTIxaWWO8g/U7zFOMyiduI/AAAAAAAAJxE/UohJqLjyza4/s1600/White-margined+Burrower+bug+Sehirus+cinctus.jpg" height="303" width="400" /></a></div>Have you noticed with many of these plants and animals, the smaller they are, the more they attract my attention? Maybe it's a macro lens fetish. How about a macro lens <i>addiction</i>, ya, that sounds better.<br /><br />I saw this little guy on a fern at Wahkeena. At first glance it looked like a Thyreocoridae. Those are known as Negro Bugs or Black Bugs. It wasn't till I enlarged the photo that I saw the X mark on the back like most True Bugs have. Thyreocordids lack that X, and look more like Shield Bugs. This is a related family known as Burrower Bugs (Cydnidae). This was another new species for me. It's called the <b>White-margined Burrower</b>, <i>Sehirus cinctus</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qPn4ztPYE2A/U7zIxXArhTI/AAAAAAAAJxQ/BOz7u8juh4s/s1600/false+potato+beetle+Leptinotarsa+juncta.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qPn4ztPYE2A/U7zIxXArhTI/AAAAAAAAJxQ/BOz7u8juh4s/s1600/false+potato+beetle+Leptinotarsa+juncta.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>No, these are not engorged maggots. They are beetle grubs. Leaf Beetles to be exact. Called the <b>False Potato Beetle</b>&nbsp;<i>Leptinotarsa juncta,</i>&nbsp;their name comes from the adults resemblance to the Colorado Potato Beetle. They're feeding on their host plant, <b>Horse Nettle</b>, <i>Solanum carolinense</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zPK6lL1Sk3E/U7zKuhuaDLI/AAAAAAAAJxc/CcgHpSE_uk4/s1600/Eastern+Tailed+Blue.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zPK6lL1Sk3E/U7zKuhuaDLI/AAAAAAAAJxc/CcgHpSE_uk4/s1600/Eastern+Tailed+Blue.JPG" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>It's easy to get the back side of these butterflies, but you have to be more patient to shoot them with wings open. It's an <b>Eastern Tailed Blue</b>, <i>Cupido (Everes) comyntas. </i>The tails make it easy to separate from the Summer Azure.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uDh8uv1U82Y/U7zL1lY6hFI/AAAAAAAAJxk/ufKrAQhs6-M/s1600/canada+thistle+seeds+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uDh8uv1U82Y/U7zL1lY6hFI/AAAAAAAAJxk/ufKrAQhs6-M/s1600/canada+thistle+seeds+2.JPG" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>As an insect, I'd hate to get tangled in this mess. These are the seeds from the dreaded <b>Canada Thistle</b>, <i>Cirsium arvense</i>. It's easy to see how the wind spreads them to so many areas.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JnT6oaitYMk/U7zM3JA9TFI/AAAAAAAAJxs/6qGpX3qNSqI/s1600/carolina+rose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JnT6oaitYMk/U7zM3JA9TFI/AAAAAAAAJxs/6qGpX3qNSqI/s1600/carolina+rose.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Carolina Rose</b>, <i>Rosa carolina</i>, with its bristle like thorns and pink flowers, makes a nice resting area for this immature Orthoptera.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8qwi5wK90Ho/U7zNQ1Y_UvI/AAAAAAAAJx0/_s2cH6BkwiY/s1600/climbing+rose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8qwi5wK90Ho/U7zNQ1Y_UvI/AAAAAAAAJx0/_s2cH6BkwiY/s1600/climbing+rose.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BpJ655b8Q2g/U7zNbVyYwvI/AAAAAAAAJx8/Er7wU3hv1nc/s1600/climbing+rose+leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BpJ655b8Q2g/U7zNbVyYwvI/AAAAAAAAJx8/Er7wU3hv1nc/s1600/climbing+rose+leaves.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Climbing Rose</b>, <i>Rosa setigera</i>, is much larger than Carolina, and also has larger thorns or prickles. The majority of the leaves are in <u>threes</u>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m1765Njn8M8/U7zOhZAuPNI/AAAAAAAAJyI/TTE3VJge_UA/s1600/Rosa+rubiginosa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m1765Njn8M8/U7zOhZAuPNI/AAAAAAAAJyI/TTE3VJge_UA/s1600/Rosa+rubiginosa.jpg" height="258" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JbTtQWhKIM/U7zOstkpHsI/AAAAAAAAJyQ/C_DVR_2ML_Y/s1600/Rosa+rubiginosa+leaves+vickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JbTtQWhKIM/U7zOstkpHsI/AAAAAAAAJyQ/C_DVR_2ML_Y/s1600/Rosa+rubiginosa+leaves+vickers.jpg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>As I mentioned earlier, when looking at tiny things, a <i>closer</i> look may be needed. When examining larger items, a <i>second</i> look is often necessary. I shot this thinking it was just another Climbing Rose. Yet the leaf shape and texture is all wrong. Besides it has 5-7 leaflets. I never come across non native roses with 5 petaled pink flowers. Up close, what appears to be double serrated leaves are actually glands along the margin. Could this be the <b>Sweetbrier Rose</b>, <i>Rosa rubiginosa</i>? I welcome comments from anyone who has experience with these.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YYZV8G2DoSI/U7zZuCUOKzI/AAAAAAAAJzE/h8wX44sR25E/s1600/treehopper+Publilia+concava.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YYZV8G2DoSI/U7zZuCUOKzI/AAAAAAAAJzE/h8wX44sR25E/s1600/treehopper+Publilia+concava.JPG" height="377" width="400" /></a></div>Here is a new species of Treehopper I came across. It's called <i>Publilia concava</i>, and I've yet to find a common name. I'm going to call it the <b>White-banded Treehopper</b>. Notice the ant in the neighborhood.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V9qEPak8woU/U7zbZO_TYQI/AAAAAAAAJzQ/4AFaKdfwpG4/s1600/treehopper+and+ant+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V9qEPak8woU/U7zbZO_TYQI/AAAAAAAAJzQ/4AFaKdfwpG4/s1600/treehopper+and+ant+3.JPG" height="346" width="400" /></a></div>It's not long before the ant notices it. It's common behavior for ants to protect treehoppers, aphids, scale, and other True Bugs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--G0kuEqgIFc/U7zb5BdWl0I/AAAAAAAAJzY/u8hmyfClASc/s1600/treehopper+and+ant+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--G0kuEqgIFc/U7zb5BdWl0I/AAAAAAAAJzY/u8hmyfClASc/s1600/treehopper+and+ant+2.JPG" height="280" width="400" /></a></div>Ants, wasps, and some bees derive sugar water that these bugs exude as a waste product after sucking plant sap. Here the ant positions itself over the treehopper and uses its antennae and mouthparts to tickle the bug and tell it someone's hungry.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D7Q-s8SMxlU/U7zc9M3r4sI/AAAAAAAAJzk/sQ2tevaQ3yw/s1600/treehopper+and+ant+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D7Q-s8SMxlU/U7zc9M3r4sI/AAAAAAAAJzk/sQ2tevaQ3yw/s1600/treehopper+and+ant+4.JPG" height="302" width="400" /></a></div>Finally it heads towards the rear of the bug and sips a bit of 'Red Bull'.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gJUSlXPT9O8/U769nL3dTgI/AAAAAAAAJz0/OoRsryEfYeQ/s1600/buckeye+borer+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gJUSlXPT9O8/U769nL3dTgI/AAAAAAAAJz0/OoRsryEfYeQ/s1600/buckeye+borer+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>As a sidelight to these hikes, I always keep a "mystery" folder of unknowns. I just got this one solved. Have you ever seen Buckeye leaves in the spring, (in this case Yellow Buckeye), suddenly wilt for no reason?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uh7AoNC9IS4/U76-kkmSpZI/AAAAAAAAJz8/gvFxDQfEM28/s1600/buckeye+borer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uh7AoNC9IS4/U76-kkmSpZI/AAAAAAAAJz8/gvFxDQfEM28/s1600/buckeye+borer.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>I have to check this kind of stuff out you understand. Turns out all these leaves had the same boring holes in the rachis. I took many of these home in hopes of hatching something. Nothing ever appeared, so I figured these were exit, not entrance holes. Thanks to Joe Boggs of OSU Extension for solving the mystery.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KuoHfv9KW_4/U77ACT4G6SI/AAAAAAAAJ0I/ApFABP3rH7M/s1600/buckeye+borer+Proteoteras+aesculana+maple+twig+borer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KuoHfv9KW_4/U77ACT4G6SI/AAAAAAAAJ0I/ApFABP3rH7M/s1600/buckeye+borer+Proteoteras+aesculana+maple+twig+borer.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>Turns out it is a moth caterpillar. <i>Proteoteras aesculana</i>, the <b>Buckeye Borer. </b>The adult is gray and black with green shading. With the wings at rest, there are 3 tufts of hairs visible down the back. It will attack maple, and is also known as the <b>Maple Twig Borer</b>. Photo courtesy of Jim Vargo.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-24734490765034799632014-07-08T20:15:00.000-04:002014-07-08T23:59:12.493-04:00Dragons and Damsels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rwj8FaFnneo/U7xxJeljBuI/AAAAAAAAJq0/CB15R_Tiw-M/s1600/slaty+skimmer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rwj8FaFnneo/U7xxJeljBuI/AAAAAAAAJq0/CB15R_Tiw-M/s1600/slaty+skimmer.jpg" height="296" width="400" /></a></div>I've posted on Dragonflies and Damselflies before, but they are always mixed with other subjects. I was going to include these in my next post, but that would make for far too large a read. Maybe come winter, when topics are slim, I'll put all the Odonata together. This is the <b>Slaty Skimmer</b>, <i>Libellula incesta</i>. The body is bluish-purple, and the head and eyes are dark.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2R8IrAorvbk/U7x17wnpbiI/AAAAAAAAJrA/VSR_RtLUCA0/s1600/spangled+skimmer+L.+cyanea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2R8IrAorvbk/U7x17wnpbiI/AAAAAAAAJrA/VSR_RtLUCA0/s1600/spangled+skimmer+L.+cyanea.jpg" height="323" width="400" /></a></div>This ragged torn up fellow is a <b>Spangled Skimmer</b>, <i>Libellula cyanea</i>. The body is similar in color to the Slaty, but the eyes and head on this one are blue. More importantly are the <i>stigmas</i> at the outer edge of the wings. Most species have a single colored stigma, but the Spangled has a <u>bicolored</u> stigma, half white, half black.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s04_20iR46Q/U7x3D6L2IxI/AAAAAAAAJrI/-LaQ_qOKma0/s1600/widow+skimmer+fem+Libellula+luctuosa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s04_20iR46Q/U7x3D6L2IxI/AAAAAAAAJrI/-LaQ_qOKma0/s1600/widow+skimmer+fem+Libellula+luctuosa.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>A female <b>Widow Skimmer</b>, <i>Libellula luctuosa</i>. The males differ from females by having white frosted marks next to those black patches. The females of both the Slaty and Spangled pictured above also have brown and yellow marks on the body, but lack the large black patches.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Yto3SsFrl8/U7x4a8radkI/AAAAAAAAJrU/NGW5QQCXH3w/s1600/ruby+meadow+fem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Yto3SsFrl8/U7x4a8radkI/AAAAAAAAJrU/NGW5QQCXH3w/s1600/ruby+meadow+fem.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>There are a number of Meadowhawks in Ohio. The males are red, the females are orange. Based on the black spots on the side, and the lack of other facial marks, this female is a <b>Ruby Meadowhawk</b>, <i>Sympetrum rubicundulum</i>.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jodcio5SBpU/U7x6kkgyWII/AAAAAAAAJrk/rrxEOepueBU/s1600/skimming+bluet+Enallagma+geminatum+vick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jodcio5SBpU/U7x6kkgyWII/AAAAAAAAJrk/rrxEOepueBU/s1600/skimming+bluet+Enallagma+geminatum+vick.jpg" height="276" width="400" /></a></div>I caught this guy just landing, before he could close his wings. This look makes you think it is a Spreadwing, but I knew better. It is a <b>Skimming Bluet</b>, <i>Enallagma geminatum</i>. Three things to look for. The blue shoulder stripe appears narrow and <u>constricted</u> in the middle. The second abdominal segment has a <u>curved</u> blue mark. Finally, the 8th and 9th abdominal segment are blue, but bordered on the side by <u>black</u> marks. This was a lifer species for me.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u3-5vamC0sM/U7x8Jh-AxzI/AAAAAAAAJrs/KujePHkbCVo/s1600/bluet,+slender.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u3-5vamC0sM/U7x8Jh-AxzI/AAAAAAAAJrs/KujePHkbCVo/s1600/bluet,+slender.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Slender Bluet</b>, <i>Enallagma traviatum</i>. Like the previous species, this is a dark bodied Bluet. What's different on this one is the dark shoulder stripe on the side is almost <u>non-existant</u>. The 8th abdominal segment has a black <u>arrowhead</u> shape.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_AIAbJFN7SQ/U7x9jl9CohI/AAAAAAAAJr4/jZpLQVIt5QA/s1600/double-stripe+close.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_AIAbJFN7SQ/U7x9jl9CohI/AAAAAAAAJr4/jZpLQVIt5QA/s1600/double-stripe+close.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><b>Double-striped Bluet</b>, <i>E. basidens</i>. I just illustrated this species on my Mothapalooza post, but this specimen shows the narrow blue line in the middle of the black stripe even better.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o9MHMmNVffA/U7x-nqNOQII/AAAAAAAAJsA/X-4gIYOdZHk/s1600/eastern+forktail+vickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o9MHMmNVffA/U7x-nqNOQII/AAAAAAAAJsA/X-4gIYOdZHk/s1600/eastern+forktail+vickers.jpg" height="287" width="400" /></a></div><b>Eastern Forktail</b> male, <i>Ischnura verticalis</i>. Green Stripes on the thorax and two green dots behind the eyes. Sky blue markings on the end of the abdomen.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-43pgXPA_-2s/U7x_YnE17SI/AAAAAAAAJsI/E1oxLQrmwU8/s1600/eastern+forktail+female+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-43pgXPA_-2s/U7x_YnE17SI/AAAAAAAAJsI/E1oxLQrmwU8/s1600/eastern+forktail+female+2.JPG" height="302" width="400" /></a></div>The sky blue or powdery look of the <i>female</i> Eastern Forktail. Also notice the two-toned eyes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s6l_OmbalLc/U7yAKarLK6I/AAAAAAAAJsU/3vYXxSGdtVQ/s1600/forktail+orange+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s6l_OmbalLc/U7yAKarLK6I/AAAAAAAAJsU/3vYXxSGdtVQ/s1600/forktail+orange+2.JPG" height="271" width="400" /></a></div>This one also has two-toned eyes, but it's <u>orange</u>. Another color form of the Eastern Forktail? Indeed<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NIH6gzQb3tI/U7yBR_HO_JI/AAAAAAAAJsc/6H10NJGVzuU/s1600/slender+spreadwing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NIH6gzQb3tI/U7yBR_HO_JI/AAAAAAAAJsc/6H10NJGVzuU/s1600/slender+spreadwing.JPG" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>Spreadwing Damselflies (family Lestidae), almost always sit with their wings open. Look how <u>long</u> and skinny this body is, and how far past the wings it extends. This is the <b>Slender Spreadwing,</b> <i>Lestes rectangularis</i>. Most male Spreadwings have pale yellow on the side of the thorax, so you have to use other features.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3AfNTXPOdic/U7yDZkdmqgI/AAAAAAAAJso/dxd2AUwI9Io/s1600/spreadwing,+slender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3AfNTXPOdic/U7yDZkdmqgI/AAAAAAAAJso/dxd2AUwI9Io/s1600/spreadwing,+slender.jpg" height="400" width="362" /></a></div>Looking at the shape of the male genitalia is usually foolproof, and no dissection is required! Another clue on both these pictures is the <u>white edge </u>on the wing tips.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1KcaCQ5VV1k/U7yUsbfMG3I/AAAAAAAAJtI/tisk1R213AM/s1600/slender+spreadwing+fem.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1KcaCQ5VV1k/U7yUsbfMG3I/AAAAAAAAJtI/tisk1R213AM/s1600/slender+spreadwing+fem.JPG" height="273" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y8buJq7mQLI/U7yEirpy2II/AAAAAAAAJsw/g5DQmCbW7K4/s1600/spreadwing,+slender+fe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y8buJq7mQLI/U7yEirpy2II/AAAAAAAAJsw/g5DQmCbW7K4/s1600/spreadwing,+slender+fe.JPG" height="287" width="400" /></a></div>On the females, the blue or aqua thoracic stripes are replaced by green and bronze.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Epk91_avfN8/U7yE-p3eBKI/AAAAAAAAJs4/7k4q-epIZ7g/s1600/swamp+or+elegant+imm%3f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Epk91_avfN8/U7yE-p3eBKI/AAAAAAAAJs4/7k4q-epIZ7g/s1600/swamp+or+elegant+imm%3f.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>This one I wasn't so sure about. I think it is newly hatched. The pale spots at the end of the abdomen are not fully developed, and the wings are being held closed. Notice the body does not extend as far past the wings as the Slender Spreadwing. I think it is a female <b>Elegant Spreadwing</b>, <i>L.</i> <i>inaequalis</i>, but it looks just like a female Swamp Spreadwing. I sent this photo to Larry Rosche, and he agreed, but stressed telling those two females apart by photos alone is difficult.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-32994145529776942082014-06-30T16:32:00.002-04:002014-07-08T18:28:13.134-04:00Mothapalooza II<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tevVPAZFzJU/U7Gk-Gv8JEI/AAAAAAAAJnk/Nh16urQl1T4/s1600/wild+cherry+moth+Apatelodes+torrefacta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tevVPAZFzJU/U7Gk-Gv8JEI/AAAAAAAAJnk/Nh16urQl1T4/s1600/wild+cherry+moth+Apatelodes+torrefacta.jpg" height="331" width="400" /></a></div>We just wrapped up another sold out Mothapalooza extravaganza. My vial caught the attention of one or two small beetles, but I didn't grab a single moth. As I mentioned last year, this is not a collecting event, but an interpretive one. With that in mind, I hope I contributed something to peoples understanding of moths. The average novice fan made it clear to me they were more interested in recognizing families or groups of moths by their size and wing shapes than memorizing species names.&nbsp;Still I would be remiss if I didn't list the names on these photographs.<br /><br />I also took a minimum number of photographs, so this will be a short post. Above is the <b>Wild Cherry</b> <b>Moth,</b> <i>Apatelodes torrefacta</i>. A common name I learned some 40 years ago, and I remain old school. Today it is better known as the<b> Spotted Apatelodes</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v12Ab0ua04U/U7GodyhchlI/AAAAAAAAJnw/4RfjTj_l744/s1600/bluet,+double-striped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v12Ab0ua04U/U7GodyhchlI/AAAAAAAAJnw/4RfjTj_l744/s1600/bluet,+double-striped.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></div>Also like last year, nature walks included more than moths. Birds, wildflowers, ferns, dragonflies, damselflies, etc. etc. I was fortunate to lead three walks with Dave Horn, and I think we made a good team. This is the <b>Double-striped Bluet</b>, <i>Enallagma basidens</i>. It is common state wide, and the only bluet I know that has the black shoulder stripe cut in half by a thin blue streak. Click on the photo to see it.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a3QgQWadboE/U7Gp5dmGDkI/AAAAAAAAJn8/vDCrnY1NYPA/s1600/yellow+millipede.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a3QgQWadboE/U7Gp5dmGDkI/AAAAAAAAJn8/vDCrnY1NYPA/s1600/yellow+millipede.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The <b>Flat-backed Yellow Millipede</b>, <i>Apheloria virginiensis</i>. There were people on our hike that had never experienced the smell of this guy. Shake one up in your hand and sniff Maraschino cherry or almond odor.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XuCb_8fEe2M/U7Gr-d4h1TI/AAAAAAAAJoI/BZ9CYad7F1M/s1600/yellow+stonefly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XuCb_8fEe2M/U7Gr-d4h1TI/AAAAAAAAJoI/BZ9CYad7F1M/s1600/yellow+stonefly.jpg" height="243" width="400" /></a></div>A large yellow <b>Stonefly</b> peeks out from the forest leaves. Notice the three light sensing organs, or <i>ocelli</i> on its head.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ma9IL91kM2s/U7Gs7rQQsPI/AAAAAAAAJoQ/D5D4xVxhV0o/s1600/clymene.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ma9IL91kM2s/U7Gs7rQQsPI/AAAAAAAAJoQ/D5D4xVxhV0o/s1600/clymene.jpg" height="332" width="400" /></a></div>Okay, let's look at some of the moths. This is the <b>Clymene Tiger Moth</b>, <i>Haploa clymene</i>. While the wings can be white, they are most often this pale yellow color. The outline of a submarine appears down the back. Most other Haploa moths have <u>white</u> hindwings. This species has two dark circles imbedded in a rich mustard yellow color.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WFBiZo1Kmf8/U7Guia0VrsI/AAAAAAAAJoc/UpapiILSHKE/s1600/dark-banded+geo+Ecliptopera+atricolorata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WFBiZo1Kmf8/U7Guia0VrsI/AAAAAAAAJoc/UpapiILSHKE/s1600/dark-banded+geo+Ecliptopera+atricolorata.jpg" height="351" width="400" /></a></div><b>Dark-banded Geometer</b>, <i>Ecliptopera atricolorata</i>.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PouPJXbbNOQ/U7GvdOhuxPI/AAAAAAAAJok/tziKm56US_I/s1600/four-spotted+geo+Trigrammia+quadrinotaria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PouPJXbbNOQ/U7GvdOhuxPI/AAAAAAAAJok/tziKm56US_I/s1600/four-spotted+geo+Trigrammia+quadrinotaria.jpg" height="400" width="381" /></a></div><b>Four-spotted Inchworm</b>, <i>Trigrammia quadrinotaria</i>. Inchworm moths are like butterflies, in the sense they have narrow bodies and broad wings. The family is Geometridae. Think geometry. Many have wings whose margins are angled, pointed, or scalloped, and so not always perfectly round.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RuQGAjj8CGw/U7Gw-CH7y3I/AAAAAAAAJow/OP4_-lsbhXA/s1600/straight-lined+palgodis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RuQGAjj8CGw/U7Gw-CH7y3I/AAAAAAAAJow/OP4_-lsbhXA/s1600/straight-lined+palgodis.jpg" height="355" width="400" /></a></div>Another Inchworm that had me fooled. Dave Wagner was scratching his head over this for the longest time. Turns out it is an unusual color form of the <b>Straight-lined Plagodis</b>, <i>Plagodis phlogosaria</i>. While there are records showing this <i>green sheen,</i> most of the time this moth is yellow with pink and purple marks. You just never know what you may find. Four other orders of insects even stopped by to check it out.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R8ov0LCs8kc/U7GyZES0RdI/AAAAAAAAJo8/RopOe_8HcOU/s1600/Dasychira+tussock+cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R8ov0LCs8kc/U7GyZES0RdI/AAAAAAAAJo8/RopOe_8HcOU/s1600/Dasychira+tussock+cat.jpg" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>A <b>Tussock Moth</b> larva of the genus <i>Dasychira</i>. While the name tussock moth is often applied to the tiger moths, this caterpillar belongs to the "true" tussock family Lymantridae (or Erebidae of some authors.) Many are familiar with the white-marked tussock, and its punk spiked white hairs on the back. These black hair tufts belong to a different species, which one I am not certain.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gQkFz3MecSo/U7G0-FVgUVI/AAAAAAAAJpI/MMKnz90mw3E/s1600/datana+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gQkFz3MecSo/U7G0-FVgUVI/AAAAAAAAJpI/MMKnz90mw3E/s1600/datana+close.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>One of the <b>Datana Prominent Moths</b>. Up close you can see the individual hairs sticking up on the thorax. The wing patterns resemble dead leaves. Sometimes they will wrap their wings around a brach and look like a broken twig.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jeBUiCz3EF4/U7G12YZUhGI/AAAAAAAAJpQ/bkUcAW5AguQ/s1600/flannel+moth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jeBUiCz3EF4/U7G12YZUhGI/AAAAAAAAJpQ/bkUcAW5AguQ/s1600/flannel+moth.jpg" height="400" width="337" /></a></div>A male <b>Black-waved Flannel Moth</b>, <i>Megalopyge crispata</i>. Formerly in the genus Lagoa, that name is out of date. Flannel Moths have raised crinkly scales that look like wool. They are related to the Slug Moths, and their caterpillars can sting.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JOPh1wp1K34/U7G48iSQ8tI/AAAAAAAAJpc/9l5SSVIr4tY/s1600/Dichomeris+flavocostella+moth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JOPh1wp1K34/U7G48iSQ8tI/AAAAAAAAJpc/9l5SSVIr4tY/s1600/Dichomeris+flavocostella+moth.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Let's not leave out the micros. This is a Gelechid moth, most of which are brown and look alike. This distinctive pattern belongs to <i>Dichomeris flavocostella</i>, the <b>Cream-bordered Dichomeris</b>. It also has bright orange mouth palps that curve above the head.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ceT4mFX_DU/U7G6gBQXs8I/AAAAAAAAJpo/D9KE9f_Gyss/s1600/Kearfottia+albifasciella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ceT4mFX_DU/U7G6gBQXs8I/AAAAAAAAJpo/D9KE9f_Gyss/s1600/Kearfottia+albifasciella.jpg" height="318" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UVZ7V_EqhdM/U7G6pJ4SmzI/AAAAAAAAJpw/oCF_Ej00bSU/s1600/Kearfottia+albifasciella+Tineidae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UVZ7V_EqhdM/U7G6pJ4SmzI/AAAAAAAAJpw/oCF_Ej00bSU/s1600/Kearfottia+albifasciella+Tineidae.jpg" height="400" width="381" /></a></div>When I first saw this I called it a Tortricid Leaf Roller. Good thing I looked again. I was wrong. Hey, there are only 13,000 moth species in North America, give me a break! This is a member of the Tineidae family. That is the family that contains those pesky Clothes Moths. It's called the <b>White-banded Kearfottia</b>, <i>Kearfottia albifascella</i>. Why not a leaf-roller? First I noticed the jagged line at the border of the black and white. More importantly is the white tuft of hairs sticking up from the ends of the wing. You can see it on the second pic. The yellow color in the first pic is due to camera flash.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SujttXNZGX0/U7G-omQNV3I/AAAAAAAAJp8/VYhqlTFbwYc/s1600/IO+female.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SujttXNZGX0/U7G-omQNV3I/AAAAAAAAJp8/VYhqlTFbwYc/s1600/IO+female.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>What would a moth trip be without something big and showy. Coming into the light was this female <b>IO</b> <b>Moth</b>, <i>Automeris io</i>. The males have the yellow wings.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gfrgpg-7QtI/U7G_U57_gzI/AAAAAAAAJqE/CG131Yvocck/s1600/IO+in+leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gfrgpg-7QtI/U7G_U57_gzI/AAAAAAAAJqE/CG131Yvocck/s1600/IO+in+leaves.jpg" height="400" width="376" /></a></div>Silk Moths become pretty docile after landing. Here I nudged the wings in hopes she would open them up.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5YlcXFlaHTo/U7G_qfCubFI/AAAAAAAAJqM/C2jJVP5e4RA/s1600/IO+on+ground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5YlcXFlaHTo/U7G_qfCubFI/AAAAAAAAJqM/C2jJVP5e4RA/s1600/IO+on+ground.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>Whala! Voila! There it is. You are now being stared at. Let's here it for the moths!DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-6789582381630531082014-06-15T12:45:00.000-04:002014-09-27T22:40:14.092-04:00Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QJuTm72lLps/U5yZtkeCuvI/AAAAAAAAJhE/FqKvq0wxasw/s1600/umbrella+magnolia+leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QJuTm72lLps/U5yZtkeCuvI/AAAAAAAAJhE/FqKvq0wxasw/s1600/umbrella+magnolia+leaves.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Kind of gives you that feel of the tropics doesn't it? That's to be expected when you are underneath the magnificent Magnolias of Lake Katherine. I joined Rick Gardner, Andrew Gibson, Steve McKee, Dave Minney, Jim Mason, and several others for an in depth tour of the preserve.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WNZd1dJJXoE/U5ydiEOY_DI/AAAAAAAAJhQ/jLUyz8lJFfY/s1600/umbrella+magnolia+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WNZd1dJJXoE/U5ydiEOY_DI/AAAAAAAAJhQ/jLUyz8lJFfY/s1600/umbrella+magnolia+L.K..jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>This is the <b>Umbrella Magnolia</b>, <i>Magnolia tripetala</i>. Notice how the leaves taper down to a fine point at the base.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwP82XZtf-c/U5yjF1rZ6bI/AAAAAAAAJhg/iZIyqGCG02I/s1600/big-leaf+magolia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwP82XZtf-c/U5yjF1rZ6bI/AAAAAAAAJhg/iZIyqGCG02I/s1600/big-leaf+magolia.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The leaves of <b>Big-leaf Magnolia</b>, <i>Magnolia macrophylla</i>, come to a more abrupt end at the base. They are lobed or cordate at the bottom. They are also white underneath.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-czOkoS7wJBg/U5ykz6fnGjI/AAAAAAAAJhs/_gY6PyjD6OI/s1600/big+leaf+mag+fl+close.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-czOkoS7wJBg/U5ykz6fnGjI/AAAAAAAAJhs/_gY6PyjD6OI/s1600/big+leaf+mag+fl+close.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>It was too late to catch either in bloom, but here's what you're missing. Big-leaf Magnolia can have showy flowers 8-12 inches wide. It's extremely rare in Ohio to find both species growing side by side.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u9ZjWCw7ZLA/U5ziBFnaRfI/AAAAAAAAJnU/yvRBIOyn1XU/s1600/banded+hairstreak+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u9ZjWCw7ZLA/U5ziBFnaRfI/AAAAAAAAJnU/yvRBIOyn1XU/s1600/banded+hairstreak+2.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></div>I arrived before anyone else, but sitting next to the parking lot to greet me was this <b>Banded Hairstreak</b>, <i>Satyrium calanus</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IwQ9tPgt9u4/U5yoG-cl3gI/AAAAAAAAJiA/v6uvCziR1x4/s1600/running+bufallo+clover+leaves+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IwQ9tPgt9u4/U5yoG-cl3gI/AAAAAAAAJiA/v6uvCziR1x4/s1600/running+bufallo+clover+leaves+L.K..jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>You wouldn't expect the group to stop and look at any ordinary clover, and ordinary it is not. This is <b>Running Buffalo Clover</b>, <i>Trifolium stoloniferum</i>. When you think of clover, you probably picture Red, White, Alsike, Sweet White, Sweet Yellow, and so on. These are alien species introduced for greening purposes, reclamation, soil enrichment, honey production, etc. Running Buffalo is native.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ocsGmx17xR0/U5yp6qGNC4I/AAAAAAAAJiM/ulnxL6xaykg/s1600/running+bufallo+clover+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ocsGmx17xR0/U5yp6qGNC4I/AAAAAAAAJiM/ulnxL6xaykg/s1600/running+bufallo+clover+2.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>Being June, we've already missed the blooming time. I'm posting it anyway because it's a new species for me. The flower is <u>white</u>. If they are pink, you may have the even rarer Buffalo Clover, <i>T. reflexum</i>. Running Buffalo Clover is rare to endangered throughout its range. &nbsp;We are starting to find more and more of it in Ohio, but make no mistake, it's still rare. Studies show it may actually benefit from disturbed habitats. We certainly have plenty of that in Ohio. Look for it on the edge of clearings, on logging roads, and hiking trails.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LyS4uY45vhw/U5ytxwtL1KI/AAAAAAAAJiY/xECs-3ApNrQ/s1600/poke+milkweed+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LyS4uY45vhw/U5ytxwtL1KI/AAAAAAAAJiY/xECs-3ApNrQ/s1600/poke+milkweed+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Poke &nbsp;Milkweed</b>, <i>Asclepias exaltata</i>. It may not be as showy as some of the other Milkweeds, but it stands tall in deciduous forests. So look for it in woodlands, not open fields. The large leaves are opposite and numerous along the plant, with an almost Pawpaw or Pokeweed look to them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4rN0Galokbs/U5yvh-IWiQI/AAAAAAAAJik/ji745vfWR7g/s1600/poke+milkweed+close+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4rN0Galokbs/U5yvh-IWiQI/AAAAAAAAJik/ji745vfWR7g/s1600/poke+milkweed+close+L.K..jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>A terminal umbrella like cluster of flowers droop downward, (an <i>umbel</i>). This is a two colored species. The back reflexed petals are green, and the front hood petals are white.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bcs3vjtmrLk/U5yxboEL4TI/AAAAAAAAJiw/GmkW9ZTMgio/s1600/Allium+canadense.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bcs3vjtmrLk/U5yxboEL4TI/AAAAAAAAJiw/GmkW9ZTMgio/s1600/Allium+canadense.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div><b>Wild Onion</b>, <i>Allium canadense</i>, another species that was past its peak blooming time.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bGwWQ9h4vSA/U5yxt4Z-aoI/AAAAAAAAJi4/J0YYx3QEc-4/s1600/honewort+Cryptotaenia+canadensis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bGwWQ9h4vSA/U5yxt4Z-aoI/AAAAAAAAJi4/J0YYx3QEc-4/s1600/honewort+Cryptotaenia+canadensis.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a></div><b>Honewort</b>, <i>Cryptotaenia canadensis</i>. This is a species of wet to mesic soil sites. The small white flowers may look a bit like Aniseroot or Sweet Cicely, but the leaflets are in threes. Honewort is a member of the Wild Carrot family. Things don't have to be big and showy like a Magnolia to catch my eye.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K6DfPOsEAxc/U5yz81bf_gI/AAAAAAAAJjE/7VqiltuVaOk/s1600/3-spotted+fillip+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K6DfPOsEAxc/U5yz81bf_gI/AAAAAAAAJjE/7VqiltuVaOk/s1600/3-spotted+fillip+2.jpg" height="258" width="400" /></a></div>Speaking of small, there were plenty of invertebrates grabbing my attention as well. While traveling through a sedge swamp, this little inchworm called the <b>3-spotted Filip</b>, <i>Heterophleps triguttaria</i>, was quite abundant.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H-zJX0Lp5X0/U5y08SEDObI/AAAAAAAAJjM/i9ok09S6fGQ/s1600/Chytolita+petrealis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H-zJX0Lp5X0/U5y08SEDObI/AAAAAAAAJjM/i9ok09S6fGQ/s1600/Chytolita+petrealis.jpg" height="303" width="400" /></a></div>Lots of moths were flying in the swamp. This is one of the Deltoid Noctuids. They are called that because of their triangular shape when at rest. This group of owlet moths also have large upturned <i>palps </i>on the face. I tell people to recognize the group by looking for the 'poodle outline' on the wings. Getting them to species is another story. This is <i>Chytolita petrealis</i>, the <b>Stone-winged Owlet</b>. Notice how distinct the lines and spots are. On a similar looking species, the Morbid Owlet, all the markings are faint.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MD_9B7IpvHw/U5y3RJ_SZgI/AAAAAAAAJjY/u7D7nzpE4bE/s1600/Zanglognatha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MD_9B7IpvHw/U5y3RJ_SZgI/AAAAAAAAJjY/u7D7nzpE4bE/s1600/Zanglognatha.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>None of these moths posed long enough for more than one shot. Hmm, I seem to say that a lot. You'll notice the same poodle outline in the wings. What's missing are the rows of dots. That makes this a close relative in the genus <b>Zanclognatha</b>. This moth is too worn for me to go further with a name. Still, like I said, I don't just go after the bright and showy. These brown moths are the ones that most people just ignore.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JxVKU65AIjY/U5y4kcL9ceI/AAAAAAAAJjk/kIJPMUdDkOM/s1600/violet+dancer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JxVKU65AIjY/U5y4kcL9ceI/AAAAAAAAJjk/kIJPMUdDkOM/s1600/violet+dancer.jpg" height="276" width="400" /></a></div>While this is common everywhere I go, you just don't see many purple damselfly species. Look for the <b>Violet Dancer,</b> <i>Argia fumipennis</i>, along any open water area.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vbV0c-o1msQ/U5y5Z9JZZkI/AAAAAAAAJjs/7WOfEg-1h-Y/s1600/blue-tipped+dancer+f.+Argia+tibialis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vbV0c-o1msQ/U5y5Z9JZZkI/AAAAAAAAJjs/7WOfEg-1h-Y/s1600/blue-tipped+dancer+f.+Argia+tibialis.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>I first saw this at Gallagher Fen last year, and here it is at Lake Katherine. This is the blue form female of the <b>Blue-tipped Dancer,</b> <i>Argia tibialis</i>. Most female damselflies are not this brightly colored.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-49FqgdCYrCU/U5y6oWZxMoI/AAAAAAAAJj4/GBwWR33JBiE/s1600/harvestman+with+fungus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-49FqgdCYrCU/U5y6oWZxMoI/AAAAAAAAJj4/GBwWR33JBiE/s1600/harvestman+with+fungus.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>I continue to shoot Harvestmen or Daddy Long-legs in hopes of putting names to them all. The more I learn, the more I realize you can't do them by photos. They require dissection, ugh! I don't mind that at all, just not sure I want to go that in depth. Here is a dead one being enveloped by fungi. I may have to go back and put this one on my zombie post.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3STz1ybJBA/U5y8AUUdwqI/AAAAAAAAJkE/qTp5nX3yabM/s1600/orchard+spider+egg+case.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3STz1ybJBA/U5y8AUUdwqI/AAAAAAAAJkE/qTp5nX3yabM/s1600/orchard+spider+egg+case.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div>While exploring some sandstone overhangs, I noticed a couple of these "liquid drops" hanging from a web. Not liquid at all, but a spider egg case suspended on a silk thread.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D2UMyPZOCbc/U5y8hN20-FI/AAAAAAAAJkM/Wgtmxqu7dO8/s1600/orchard+spider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D2UMyPZOCbc/U5y8hN20-FI/AAAAAAAAJkM/Wgtmxqu7dO8/s1600/orchard+spider.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Searching the web to see who they belonged to, there was an <b>Orchard Spider</b>, <i>Leucauge venusta</i>. These white, green, and yellow spiders are common in most woodlands. Turns out, there was a <u>second </u>web behind that belonged to the egg layer, not the Orchard Spider. Richard Bradley said it is indeed <i>Theridiosoma gemmosum</i>. Jim was right.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kF3kWS0CyJM/U5y9KUDhwTI/AAAAAAAAJkU/BqSo1JsKMAk/s1600/forked+fungus+beetle+Bolitotherus+cornutus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kF3kWS0CyJM/U5y9KUDhwTI/AAAAAAAAJkU/BqSo1JsKMAk/s1600/forked+fungus+beetle+Bolitotherus+cornutus.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div>Thanks to those with a flashlight, or I never would have spotted this guy. Sitting on the sandstone conglomerate was this beetle. The thorax and elytra are covered in bumps, and it looks like a moving rock when it walks. This Tenebrionid is known as the <b>Forked Fungus Beetle</b>, <i>Bolitotherus cornutus</i>. It feeds on fungus and carries spores from one mushroom to another. The two horn like projections make this a male. These beetles may be brown or black.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ez7M-ssDUuk/U5y-nHZA-dI/AAAAAAAAJkg/BPgEAPlSjEY/s1600/pleasing+fungus+Megalodacne+heros.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ez7M-ssDUuk/U5y-nHZA-dI/AAAAAAAAJkg/BPgEAPlSjEY/s1600/pleasing+fungus+Megalodacne+heros.jpg" height="276" width="400" /></a></div>Feeding on bracken fungi was this large showy beetle. Once again, the second I approached, off he went. The camera and I must be a bit intimidating. When you are hiking with a group that is on the move, you don't have time to sneak up and wait. Get it while you can, and catch up to the crowd. This is a <b>Pleasing Fungus Beetle</b>. There are two species with the same orange black pattern. Since there are no rows of small pin-point punctures on the wings, this is <i>Megalodacne heros</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VYfh38Y4-x8/U5zBjZH_UsI/AAAAAAAAJks/p7i4NjAUDzM/s1600/Ermine+moth+Yponomeuta+multipunctella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VYfh38Y4-x8/U5zBjZH_UsI/AAAAAAAAJks/p7i4NjAUDzM/s1600/Ermine+moth+Yponomeuta+multipunctella.jpg" height="270" width="400" /></a></div>Finally, a critter that cooperated! This little micro is called an <b>Ermine Moth</b>, <i>Yponomeuta multipunctella</i>. The family is named for this genus, and multipunctella means 'many spots'. Look at the top of the moth (which is really the wing bottoms.) There are two rows of parallel black dots. Use this to separate it from other similar ermine moths. These &nbsp;also look like <b>Ethmia </b>moths. Those species have black <i><u>streaks</u> </i>in their wings, not just dots. Ethmia moths hold their antennae down, Ermine moths hold their antennae up in the air.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ty17VcA7rRM/U5zFMdocHDI/AAAAAAAAJk4/Y3BbuFAt4TI/s1600/red+admiral+cat+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ty17VcA7rRM/U5zFMdocHDI/AAAAAAAAJk4/Y3BbuFAt4TI/s1600/red+admiral+cat+2.jpg" height="378" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-as9AWM2yx_I/U5zFXziWSKI/AAAAAAAAJlA/gWQJLBadffw/s1600/red+admiral+cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-as9AWM2yx_I/U5zFXziWSKI/AAAAAAAAJlA/gWQJLBadffw/s1600/red+admiral+cat.jpg" height="295" width="400" /></a></div>Climbing through, and feeding on the <b>False Nettle</b>, <i>Boehmeria cylindrica</i>, was this brightly marked spiny caterpillar. False Nettle, as well as Stinging Nettle are the food plants for the <b>Red Admiral Butterfly</b>, <i>Vanessa atalanta</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2EXZ8Zehhbk/U5zGcHkZeHI/AAAAAAAAJlM/AkaO7QCAyxc/s1600/galls+on+grape+Phylloxera.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2EXZ8Zehhbk/U5zGcHkZeHI/AAAAAAAAJlM/AkaO7QCAyxc/s1600/galls+on+grape+Phylloxera.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Always on the lookout for new galls, these fuzz balls on the back of a Grape leaf have me stumped. I think they are Phylloxera insects, aphid relatives. We'll see if I can get that confirmed.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IuqJtRnQjOM/U5zH8Tf_QuI/AAAAAAAAJlY/c0EBhAwZdrM/s1600/tachinid,+Pararchytas+decisus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IuqJtRnQjOM/U5zH8Tf_QuI/AAAAAAAAJlY/c0EBhAwZdrM/s1600/tachinid,+Pararchytas+decisus.jpg" height="325" width="400" /></a></div>After close to 5 hours of hiking, I was getting pretty wiped out. As we rested around the dam, insects started seeking us out. <i>Pararchytas decisus</i> is a type of <b>Tachinid Fly</b>. Tachinids can be recognized by the spiny pin cushion butt. These and several species of Flesh Flies will commonly land on you. Both groups are caterpillar parasites, so they won't bite like Deer Flies. They are slow moving upon landing, so you can just pick it up and move it off you if such things make you squeamish.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jJYt328tHkc/U5zJ2KKVIsI/AAAAAAAAJlk/CNAZkGL-7AY/s1600/frittalary+on+arm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jJYt328tHkc/U5zJ2KKVIsI/AAAAAAAAJlk/CNAZkGL-7AY/s1600/frittalary+on+arm.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div>When you're hot it's not unusual for butterflies to land on your skin. Here is a <b>Great Spangled Fritillary</b> looking to suck a little salt from your sweat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJI34kv3J0Q/U5zK7kf9tdI/AAAAAAAAJls/85egDwIf1zM/s1600/Selaginella+opoda+spike+moss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJI34kv3J0Q/U5zK7kf9tdI/AAAAAAAAJls/85egDwIf1zM/s1600/Selaginella+opoda+spike+moss.jpg" height="400" width="315" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mfH_jC2Pgkk/U5zLFv8bJuI/AAAAAAAAJl0/BJcKrzxt970/s1600/selaginella+opoda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mfH_jC2Pgkk/U5zLFv8bJuI/AAAAAAAAJl0/BJcKrzxt970/s1600/selaginella+opoda.jpg" height="246" width="400" /></a></div>These small creeping plants growing among the true mosses are commonly called <b>Spikemoss. </b>They have scale like leaves, and produce spores. This one is <i>Selaginella opoda</i>, the <b>Meadow Spikemoss. </b>Considered fern allies, they are taxonomically closer to Lycopodium and Club Mosses.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gsU_2QMYWyI/U5zRP7VbxnI/AAAAAAAAJmE/MUoG-bDTrac/s1600/narrow-leaved+spleenwort+Diplazium+pycnocarpon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gsU_2QMYWyI/U5zRP7VbxnI/AAAAAAAAJmE/MUoG-bDTrac/s1600/narrow-leaved+spleenwort+Diplazium+pycnocarpon.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sMKebxw8XjQ/U5zRahYYHTI/AAAAAAAAJmM/4CVRiUftWnI/s1600/narrow-leaved+spleenwort+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sMKebxw8XjQ/U5zRahYYHTI/AAAAAAAAJmM/4CVRiUftWnI/s1600/narrow-leaved+spleenwort+L.K..jpg" height="351" width="400" /></a></div>There were some interesting ferns as well. A new one for me was <b>Narrow-leaved Spleenwort</b>, <i>Diplazium pycnocarpon</i>. This was down in the mesic to wet portions of the woods. For some reason it reminded me of a chain fern without the center wings or lobes. Up close it does resemble Christmas Fern. The pinna are entire, and lack the raised portion that Christmas fern has near the base.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mVKSdY0C5ck/U5zSqOH5syI/AAAAAAAAJmY/WZ0PYG8mgs0/s1600/Mt.+spleenwort+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mVKSdY0C5ck/U5zSqOH5syI/AAAAAAAAJmY/WZ0PYG8mgs0/s1600/Mt.+spleenwort+L.K..jpg" height="337" width="400" /></a></div>Growing on the rock faces was another new one for me, the <b>Mountain Spleenwort</b>, <i>Asplenium montanum</i>. While there is a slight resemblance to Fragile Fern, the leaves of this species remind me of Parsley.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rE5q-zArxWI/U5zTVAJYU4I/AAAAAAAAJmg/-arotJ_Ys4A/s1600/lobed+spleenwort+2+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rE5q-zArxWI/U5zTVAJYU4I/AAAAAAAAJmg/-arotJ_Ys4A/s1600/lobed+spleenwort+2+L.K..jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RGV9pGMv1Jc/U5zTfSaoFwI/AAAAAAAAJmo/I84MUYvOhuM/s1600/lobed+spleenwort+Asplenium+pinnatifidum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RGV9pGMv1Jc/U5zTfSaoFwI/AAAAAAAAJmo/I84MUYvOhuM/s1600/lobed+spleenwort+Asplenium+pinnatifidum.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Growing alongside the Mountain Spleenworts were these young <b>Lobed Spleenworts</b>, <i>Asplenium pinnatifidum</i>. While I have illustrated this before in my fern posts, I learned something new about these two species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sZupwKHjMTg/U5zUFFgm_6I/AAAAAAAAJmw/usAekp5YVEs/s1600/trudell+spleenwort+hybrid+L.K..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sZupwKHjMTg/U5zUFFgm_6I/AAAAAAAAJmw/usAekp5YVEs/s1600/trudell+spleenwort+hybrid+L.K..jpg" height="388" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-py4qX25b5j0/U5zUO4Y_LLI/AAAAAAAAJm4/AXkHEgUSRSw/s1600/Trudell+Spleenwort+hybrid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-py4qX25b5j0/U5zUO4Y_LLI/AAAAAAAAJm4/AXkHEgUSRSw/s1600/Trudell+Spleenwort+hybrid.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>When you get Mountain and Lobed growing together, this is often the result. This is <b>Trudell's Spleenwort</b>, Asplenium x trudelli, a hybrid between the previous two species. Believe me, had it not been pointed out to me, I would have never been able to tell.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YdlPO8yaf-8/U5zVgAI9f5I/AAAAAAAAJnE/uuMRHxLi1-U/s1600/carex+side+by+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YdlPO8yaf-8/U5zVgAI9f5I/AAAAAAAAJnE/uuMRHxLi1-U/s1600/carex+side+by+side.jpg" height="336" width="640" /></a></div>When on a hike with Rick, you know darn well we will do sedges. Here is a taste of some of them. I mentioned in my last post that we did 33 at Wahkeena. Today we did, um, well... I lost count! I did pick up more new ones. Before summer is over I should have up at least three posts on sedges. That means I'll lock myself away for days on end trying to figure out how to describe them all. This picture shows some of the showier species. In my Carex world, showy simply means <b>easier </b>ones.<br /><br />For those who can't wait and just have to know right now, here they are from left to right.<br />louisianica, grayii, lurida, intumescens, typhina, squarrosa, alubatescens, vesicaria, tuckermanii, crinita, debilis.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-45391829696324930402014-06-11T19:03:00.000-04:002014-06-11T19:10:07.169-04:00Hiking Wahkeena<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HiBEbxL0or4/U5h-Ju9DPAI/AAAAAAAAJdI/vlATbqfgEwc/s1600/lurida,+mill+creek+wetland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HiBEbxL0or4/U5h-Ju9DPAI/AAAAAAAAJdI/vlATbqfgEwc/s1600/lurida,+mill+creek+wetland.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>I recently had the opportunity to get out in the field with Rick Gardner to survey the Carex Sedges of Wahkeena Nature Preserve. In a couple hours we found 33 species, and my brain turned to mush! I have 50 different ones photographed now, more than enough for a post. It seems like a lot, but that's not even one third of all the Ohio species. That sedge post will have to wait awhile. Not wait till I get more, but to figure out how to tell them all apart!!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PIxjyz2CE-4/U5iBP5cZNYI/AAAAAAAAJdQ/r_CrG9PTv-U/s1600/bristly+locust+long.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PIxjyz2CE-4/U5iBP5cZNYI/AAAAAAAAJdQ/r_CrG9PTv-U/s1600/bristly+locust+long.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>On the way to Wahkeena, I wanted to stop and get some shots from a patch of <b>Bristly Locust</b>, <i>Robinia</i> <i>hispida</i>. Sometimes called <b>Rose Acacia</b>, it is native to the southern states. It looks similar to our Black Locust, <i>R. pseudoacacia</i>, but the flowers are pink, the twigs are covered in red hairs, and the plant is a shrub.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AugVFlBdVkE/U5iCBZXW4GI/AAAAAAAAJdY/oMmCBAMGIlM/s1600/bristly+locust+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AugVFlBdVkE/U5iCBZXW4GI/AAAAAAAAJdY/oMmCBAMGIlM/s1600/bristly+locust+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Bristly Locust is planted as an ornamental in Ohio. It has a tendency to spread rapidly in open areas, and could become invasive. One way to prevent that is to graft the branches to the root stock of Black Locust.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e62mtYPBKKg/U5iCf-w9kuI/AAAAAAAAJdg/fS9BNKSjcag/s1600/arrowwood+bloom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e62mtYPBKKg/U5iCf-w9kuI/AAAAAAAAJdg/fS9BNKSjcag/s1600/arrowwood+bloom.jpg" height="306" width="400" /></a></div><b>Arrowwood,</b> <i>Viburnum dentatum</i>, one of the most common plants seen along the Wahkeena boardwalk.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_i65cvfl_uU/U5iC5uRZkDI/AAAAAAAAJdo/NC62JjAXn2c/s1600/ichneman+bore+Megarhyssa+greenei.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_i65cvfl_uU/U5iC5uRZkDI/AAAAAAAAJdo/NC62JjAXn2c/s1600/ichneman+bore+Megarhyssa+greenei.jpg" height="273" width="400" /></a></div>A giant <b>Ichneumon Wasp</b> boring into the base of a Beech tree. As I tried to get closer, it immediately removed the ovipositor and flew away. I hate when I get only one shot. This is probably <i>Megarhyssa greenei</i>. M. macrurus looks identical to this species, except that one has more dark markings in the wings.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3UWtapU6j_s/U5iEgz06DRI/AAAAAAAAJd4/RxXLiB044QM/s1600/Crane+Fly+Ctenophora+dorsalis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3UWtapU6j_s/U5iEgz06DRI/AAAAAAAAJd4/RxXLiB044QM/s1600/Crane+Fly+Ctenophora+dorsalis.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>Also not sitting still for more than one shot was this red and black insect that at first looked like another Ichneumon Wasp. Turns out it is a giant <b>Crane Fly</b>, <i>Ctenophora dorsalis</i>. Even in this blurry picture, you can see it only has two wings. The red thorax is just one of many color forms for this species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ySZT-YWV7c0/U5jhVUO3n7I/AAAAAAAAJfM/yuxeNSfG0c8/s1600/black+click+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ySZT-YWV7c0/U5jhVUO3n7I/AAAAAAAAJfM/yuxeNSfG0c8/s1600/black+click+close.jpg" height="273" width="400" /></a></div>While hiking around I was able to put this black <b>Click Beetle</b> into someones hands, and watch it somersault right side up. Judging by the size, you'd think I could get a species name on this, but I've had no luck. The punctured elytra makes me think it survived a recent attack by something.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5H6OSyraE0/U5iG3WZVq0I/AAAAAAAAJeI/J2jij_5A8kY/s1600/moneywort+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5H6OSyraE0/U5iG3WZVq0I/AAAAAAAAJeI/J2jij_5A8kY/s1600/moneywort+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Moneywort</b>, &nbsp;<i>Lysimachia nummularia</i>. Essentially it's a prostrate growing species of Loosestrife. It is non native, and was brought over for its medicinal properties. Look for it in wetlands.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kTT5eLgne0Q/U5iH01UdlgI/AAAAAAAAJeQ/HAOR2l5xkv8/s1600/white+maple+leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kTT5eLgne0Q/U5iH01UdlgI/AAAAAAAAJeQ/HAOR2l5xkv8/s1600/white+maple+leaves.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Some unusual <b>Red Maple</b> leaves, <i>Acer rubrum</i>. White leaves can be caused by a number of things. Herbicide use can kill chlorophyl, but there has been no spraying here. Iron deficiency can result in leaves like this, but then why are all the others fine? Hard to say what caused it, but if they can't photosynthesize, they'll soon fall off.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i7iVkzbbpZY/U5iOYC972wI/AAAAAAAAJec/A9aeIM2KT68/s1600/petaltail+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i7iVkzbbpZY/U5iOYC972wI/AAAAAAAAJec/A9aeIM2KT68/s1600/petaltail+side.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div>The best find of the day was this dragonfly. I had never seen one in the wild. This is the <b>Gray Petaltail</b>, <i>Tachopteryx thoreyi</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-scTqwCr1RBo/U5iQEkGnxwI/AAAAAAAAJek/aRA0Ward7lQ/s1600/petaltail,+gray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-scTqwCr1RBo/U5iQEkGnxwI/AAAAAAAAJek/aRA0Ward7lQ/s1600/petaltail,+gray.jpg" height="345" width="400" /></a></div>Petaltails are some of the oldest and most primitive of dragonflies. Its only other family relative is found on the west coast. While this was shot on the last day of May, most records in Ohio peak in June and July. So far they've only been located in about 25% of Ohio counties. They are large, and our only black and gray dragonfly. Look how it blends in with the tree bark. The eyes are widely separated in this species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hoi61i-9gMc/U5jhtN18C8I/AAAAAAAAJfU/di_Z8cM2ErE/s1600/petaltail+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hoi61i-9gMc/U5jhtN18C8I/AAAAAAAAJfU/di_Z8cM2ErE/s1600/petaltail+close.jpg" height="291" width="400" /></a></div>The Gray Petaltail, especially males, prefer openings in the canopy of mature forests. Here they can patrol a territory and seek out females. This species of dragonfly doesn't need rivers, streams, ponds, or lakes. It lays its eggs in mud or wet soils where springs and seeps can be found. If you wear light colored clothing, don't be surprised to see one land on you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3NcFRcgnA30/U5iUJtaPyOI/AAAAAAAAJe0/GP2gnK8e0kc/s1600/twayblade+fl+&amp;+leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3NcFRcgnA30/U5iUJtaPyOI/AAAAAAAAJe0/GP2gnK8e0kc/s1600/twayblade+fl+&amp;+leaves.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3-UdogYwBd0/U5iUWnpe9oI/AAAAAAAAJe8/gMYNbxJQNto/s1600/twayblade+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3-UdogYwBd0/U5iUWnpe9oI/AAAAAAAAJe8/gMYNbxJQNto/s1600/twayblade+close.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></div>And what would a trip to Wahkeena be without adding another Orchid.<b> Large Twayblade</b>, <i>Liparis liliifolia</i>, is one of those orchids you can easily miss if you are walking too fast. The two broad basal leaves may be noticed before the flowers. The flower stems are bright purple, and the sepals are green. The thin purple threads are the side petals. The main wide lip can vary from brown to purple.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4201241308485646302.post-12092883578902543732014-05-21T14:21:00.000-04:002014-05-28T14:50:48.720-04:00More Spring Hiking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iNZPmvrWwO4/U3jLP4qWxJI/AAAAAAAAJR8/jKgi60zufgo/s1600/Tulip-tree+beauty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iNZPmvrWwO4/U3jLP4qWxJI/AAAAAAAAJR8/jKgi60zufgo/s1600/Tulip-tree+beauty.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></div>Before leaving the house I noticed this large Geometrid on my window. This is the <b>Tulip-tree Beauty</b>, <i>Epimecis hortaria</i>. This is one of our larger Inchworm moths.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDm-7KqtCLU/U3jLzPnxtEI/AAAAAAAAJSE/_GNypOnWDBg/s1600/Tulip-tree+beauty+Epimecis+hortaria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDm-7KqtCLU/U3jLzPnxtEI/AAAAAAAAJSE/_GNypOnWDBg/s1600/Tulip-tree+beauty+Epimecis+hortaria.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></a></div>Shooting from the top side shows the wavy markings typical of this species. I found it interesting to get a front and back view, but what did I learn from shooting both sides? My windows are filthy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMqv1oJk1II/U3jMosvh7EI/AAAAAAAAJSQ/CEmz1Jjv4_A/s1600/harvester+pair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMqv1oJk1II/U3jMosvh7EI/AAAAAAAAJSQ/CEmz1Jjv4_A/s1600/harvester+pair.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The diversity of Log Cabin Hollow keeps me going back for a wide variety of subject matter. I went to continue building pictures of aquatic insects, which I'll save for later. Along the creek were a pair of <b>Harvester </b>Butterflies, <i>Feniseca tarquinius</i>. Generally not a real abundant species, but here they are locally common. This butterfly is known for the caterpillars that feed not on plants, but aphids. A meat eating larva.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p8MhkFdtEu8/U3jOeTtn_1I/AAAAAAAAJSc/Xm1v4fFFT0c/s1600/harvester+proboscis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p8MhkFdtEu8/U3jOeTtn_1I/AAAAAAAAJSc/Xm1v4fFFT0c/s1600/harvester+proboscis.jpg" height="408" width="640" /></a></div>You can see the one on the left probing the log for nutrients. Their tongue, or proboscis is too short to penetrate down into flowers for nectar. The adults also feed on the sugar water wastes (or <i>honeydew</i>) from the same aphids the larvae consume. Speaking of wastes, you can see the droplet on the right specimen. &nbsp;Adults have liquid wastes, while caterpillars have a solid waste or <i>frass</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HilYQL3jyLA/U3jrE1FhxmI/AAAAAAAAJSs/Odg004zg5Ps/s1600/Osmia+mason+bee+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HilYQL3jyLA/U3jrE1FhxmI/AAAAAAAAJSs/Odg004zg5Ps/s1600/Osmia+mason+bee+back.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbYjQ-h1MDw/U3jrLKGIElI/AAAAAAAAJS0/e4n0erBEsoA/s1600/Osmia+bee+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbYjQ-h1MDw/U3jrLKGIElI/AAAAAAAAJS0/e4n0erBEsoA/s1600/Osmia+bee+close.jpg" height="293" width="400" /></a></div>Also along the stream was this bee seeking out mud for its nest. Looking like half Carpenter bee and half Bumble bee, the hairy face and legs make this a <b>Mason Bee</b>. Bees in the genus <i>Osmia</i> are related to Leaf-cutting Bees. They are sometimes called <b>Orchard Bees </b>because a number of them were introduced and released for their pollinating abilities.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wmuui6UU0oM/U3jvhEXpevI/AAAAAAAAJTA/33fmSTHTveA/s1600/eastern+tent+caterpillar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wmuui6UU0oM/U3jvhEXpevI/AAAAAAAAJTA/33fmSTHTveA/s1600/eastern+tent+caterpillar.jpg" height="208" width="400" /></a></div>Rusty hairs, yellow and blue spots on the side, and a white racing stripe down the back, describes our <b>Eastern Tent Caterpillar</b>. Currently feeding on Wild Cherry leaves, they soon will be leaving the trees to pupate somewhere away from the food plant.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wKTHO9kvhJc/U34jjQZpz5I/AAAAAAAAJVU/klTmGecB5ZI/s1600/puttyroot+closed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wKTHO9kvhJc/U34jjQZpz5I/AAAAAAAAJVU/klTmGecB5ZI/s1600/puttyroot+closed.jpg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>In a recent post I mentioned finding an old fruit stalk of the <b>Putty-root Orchid</b>, <i>Aplectrum hyemale</i>. I headed out to Wahkeena to find it in flower. These maroon and gold petals were just starting to open. The big broad leaves, also shown in that same earlier post, pop up nearly 6 months ahead of the flower. Come blooming time, you may not find the leaves, as they tend to wilt before the flower comes up.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GW-9FhALRM8/U34kskb14NI/AAAAAAAAJVc/DyE7z3zkG9A/s1600/puttyroot+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GW-9FhALRM8/U34kskb14NI/AAAAAAAAJVc/DyE7z3zkG9A/s1600/puttyroot+3.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Here was a group of plants with the petals a little further open.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-clSTbSNTB9g/U34k6kcMVzI/AAAAAAAAJVk/XM41KpaDAr8/s1600/puttyroot+spider+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-clSTbSNTB9g/U34k6kcMVzI/AAAAAAAAJVk/XM41KpaDAr8/s1600/puttyroot+spider+2.jpg" height="291" width="400" /></a></div>A closeup of the middle lip, typical of many orchids. It wasn't until I enlarged the picture did I notice an unknown miniature spider in the upper flower.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ePwh7Sidyec/U34mzv6hHrI/AAAAAAAAJVs/_DmbbQlB0DQ/s1600/pink+lady's+slipper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ePwh7Sidyec/U34mzv6hHrI/AAAAAAAAJVs/_DmbbQlB0DQ/s1600/pink+lady's+slipper.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Always one of my favorite orchids, this is the <b>Pink Lady's Slipper</b>, or <b>Moccasin Flower,</b><i> Cypripedium</i> <i>acaule</i>. Look for it in conifer forests with acidic soils. Unlike the Putty-root, this species has a <u>pair</u> of basal leaves present during blooming.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b8crjMpGesg/U34pIQj58fI/AAAAAAAAJV0/x1JYniN0KYA/s1600/pink+lady's+slipper+close+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b8crjMpGesg/U34pIQj58fI/AAAAAAAAJV0/x1JYniN0KYA/s1600/pink+lady's+slipper+close+2.jpg" height="276" width="400" /></a></div>In order to perpetuate, these plants depend on a fungal association below ground, and Bumble Bees above ground for pollination. Some studies show that prescribed burning can increase the orchid population by allowing more sunlight to penetrate, and to decrease the competition on the forest floor.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_EaTua5ZZ5M/U3jwIF1KQKI/AAAAAAAAJTI/5X3irpSQy-A/s1600/stitchwort,+long-leaved+bloom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_EaTua5ZZ5M/U3jwIF1KQKI/AAAAAAAAJTI/5X3irpSQy-A/s1600/stitchwort,+long-leaved+bloom.jpg" height="336" width="400" /></a></div><b>Long-leaved Stitchwort</b>,<i> Stellaria longifolia,</i> is a narrow leaved species of Chickweed<i>. </i>Unlike it's shorter relatives, it tends to grow a foot or two high.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4hPVoNM1E8w/U3jxBn1PDfI/AAAAAAAAJTU/o-ppzGbaZYM/s1600/violet+wood+sorrell+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4hPVoNM1E8w/U3jxBn1PDfI/AAAAAAAAJTU/o-ppzGbaZYM/s1600/violet+wood+sorrell+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Violet Wood Sorrel</b>, <i>Oxalis violacea</i>. Found in a variety of habitats, it's quite common in upland forests and sites with limestone soils.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-092j_LxM8NQ/U3jyOVsBF5I/AAAAAAAAJTg/qaCm94PjiuU/s1600/sweet+cicely.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-092j_LxM8NQ/U3jyOVsBF5I/AAAAAAAAJTg/qaCm94PjiuU/s1600/sweet+cicely.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Sweet Cicely</b>, <i>Osmorhiza claytonii</i>, just beginning to bloom. The flowers look a little chewed, but that's because each of the petals are notched.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tKSpdKToRf8/U3jy9bL9a0I/AAAAAAAAJTo/JEJYpYhMXqw/s1600/sweet+cicely+hairy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tKSpdKToRf8/U3jy9bL9a0I/AAAAAAAAJTo/JEJYpYhMXqw/s1600/sweet+cicely+hairy.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>Sweet Cicely and <b>Aniseroot</b> <i>Osmorhiza longistylis</i>, are similar. Check the stems, Sweet Cicely will be covered in hairs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pw8mHpi13ag/U3jzWEwajZI/AAAAAAAAJTw/4d35AHMfxAw/s1600/aniseroot+smooth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pw8mHpi13ag/U3jzWEwajZI/AAAAAAAAJTw/4d35AHMfxAw/s1600/aniseroot+smooth.jpg" height="326" width="400" /></a></div>Aniseroot stems will be&nbsp;<u>smooth</u>. Both these species smell like licorice when scratched, but Aniseroot has the stronger odor, especially in the roots.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K7X6hyKHy9s/U3j0_gIU01I/AAAAAAAAJT8/RL5up608aLI/s1600/spirea+and+beetle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K7X6hyKHy9s/U3j0_gIU01I/AAAAAAAAJT8/RL5up608aLI/s1600/spirea+and+beetle.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div><b>Spirea</b> shrub in bloom. Ornamentals can add beauty to a landscape, and I have no problem with them, as long as they are non-invasive. This looks to be one of the many varieties of <b>Bridal Wreath Spirea</b>. That's a pollen feeding Scarab Beetle on the flowers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n_Ar6egW79o/U3zkdF58I0I/AAAAAAAAJUM/uyd-oJ93SjA/s1600/azalea,+mountain+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n_Ar6egW79o/U3zkdF58I0I/AAAAAAAAJUM/uyd-oJ93SjA/s1600/azalea,+mountain+2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The folks at Wahkeena Nature Preserve beat me to the post. I started this a long time ago, just finishing now. There is a reason for that, but I'll discuss it at the end of this. Some of the Rhododendrons are now in bloom, and I went to check them out while I could. This is commonly referred to as the <b>Mountain Azalea</b>, <i>Rhododendron canescens</i> I believe.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHkcnFxd1_8/U3zlXtiOObI/AAAAAAAAJUU/ImaMsDVhOIQ/s1600/azalea,+mountain+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHkcnFxd1_8/U3zlXtiOObI/AAAAAAAAJUU/ImaMsDVhOIQ/s1600/azalea,+mountain+3.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></a></div>I used to find this in the panhandle of Florida. The native range is south of Ohio. For those who use the Newcomb flower book, there are three similar plants discussed on the page. All three are now considered the same species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6A4jqxKVLps/U3zl58tMSgI/AAAAAAAAJUc/RiMbW5KdOwk/s1600/flame+azalea+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6A4jqxKVLps/U3zl58tMSgI/AAAAAAAAJUc/RiMbW5KdOwk/s1600/flame+azalea+3.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>The red striped buds of the <b>Flame Azalea</b>, <i>Rhododendron calendulaceum</i>, were just popping out while I was there.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBhXGfK3Xis/U3zmTPXJkTI/AAAAAAAAJUk/2T6Dn1qTgZo/s1600/flame+azalea+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBhXGfK3Xis/U3zmTPXJkTI/AAAAAAAAJUk/2T6Dn1qTgZo/s1600/flame+azalea+1.jpg" height="293" width="400" /></a></div>Early blooming flowers start as yellowish. Besides the color, the long protruding stamens add to the striking appearance.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f_KIfGx45nU/U3znXHK0H8I/AAAAAAAAJUs/yE0vv91u3Kw/s1600/flame+azalea+R.+calendulaceum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f_KIfGx45nU/U3znXHK0H8I/AAAAAAAAJUs/yE0vv91u3Kw/s1600/flame+azalea+R.+calendulaceum.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>In a very short time, all the flowers turn a brilliant orange. Flame Azalea is considered native to parts of southern Ohio, but it's rare to find them growing wild this far north.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C3nDzmT3l2E/U3zn8gCRb9I/AAAAAAAAJU0/oCrKT7k_6no/s1600/painted+turtle+head.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C3nDzmT3l2E/U3zn8gCRb9I/AAAAAAAAJU0/oCrKT7k_6no/s1600/painted+turtle+head.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>"In your face Fonzie".<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXFDPCquCtM/U3zoGjV7t5I/AAAAAAAAJU8/CQ6CVwjC5gk/s1600/bullfrog+tympanum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXFDPCquCtM/U3zoGjV7t5I/AAAAAAAAJU8/CQ6CVwjC5gk/s1600/bullfrog+tympanum.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>"Stick it in your ear Potsie". Happy Days are here again. Finals are over, and you'd think I'd be in the field everyday. I don't mean to be a downer, but all year people have asked me "What's wrong with your eyes?" I looked like I just got up, no matter the time of day. Some probably thought I was always stoned. HA!<br /><br />All joking aside, I have been to Columbus a lot lately, and have been diagnosed with a very rare form of dysplasia in my eye. This is why I haven't been posting. Turns out pathology says it is metaplasia, less serious, and NO carcinoma cells present. Still, a little 'snip snip' here and a 'snip snip' there, that's how they work the day away in the merry old land of OSU. They got it all, so all is well again in the land of Oz.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDiEHQHdbmo/U3zqQJ6QHWI/AAAAAAAAJVE/ZP8u45MMfvA/s1600/snapper+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDiEHQHdbmo/U3zqQJ6QHWI/AAAAAAAAJVE/ZP8u45MMfvA/s1600/snapper+close.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>My favorite phrase from a doctor, "we caught it early". Recovery is a pain, feels like ground glass in my eye. Considering there was no cancer, I'll be fine. Can't wait to start 'snapping' photos again, but it may be awhile.DenProhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07482657904308866348noreply@blogger.com5